Fresh Catch Fish Kiosk
Patna: The Bihar government is set to modernise and streamline fish sales in the state by establishing 100 Fresh Catch Fish Kiosks on the lines of Sudha dairy outlets. The plan will be implemented in two phases, with 30 kiosks in the first phase and 70 in the second. Construction of the first 30 kiosks is under way, and they are expected to be inaugurated soon.
The initiative aims to provide urban consumers with fresh fish in a clean and hygienic environment while ensuring better market access for fish farmers. In view of these objectives, the state government has included a special focus on fisheries under its Saat Nishchay-3 programme, seeking to promote inclusive development, improve ease of living and fulfil its vision of doubling employment opportunities and income.
The scheme is expected to cost a maximum of Rs 10.56 crore. It will be implemented through the Directorate of Fisheries and the Bihar Aquaculture Infrastructure and Development Corporation Limited (BAIDCL), under the Department of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources. Government land, land owned by urban local bodies and land provided by district administrations will be used to establish the kiosks.
In the first phase, kiosks are being established in major urban centres, including Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, Purnia, Darbhanga, Begusarai, Motihari, Bettiah, Hajipur, Kishanganj, Katihar and Munger.
Fish Sale Centres to Have Modern Facilities
The Fresh Catch kiosks will be equipped with facilities to ensure the safe storage and sale of fish. These will include cold-chain infrastructure, deep freezers, display counters, clean water, drainage, electricity and backup power.
A strong supply chain linking local fish producers with kiosk operators will also be developed to ensure the regular availability of fresh fish. Digital payment facilities and waste management systems will be introduced as well. These measures are expected to help preserve the freshness and quality of fish while maintaining hygiene at the sales centres.
At present, fish is sold through traditional and largely unorganised channels in many urban areas. This creates challenges in maintaining proper storage conditions, hygiene and product quality. The new kiosks are expected to address these shortcomings and strengthen the supply and distribution network for fish and other fisheries products.
Government to Bear Up to 80% of Construction Cost
The stipulated unit cost of each kiosk has been fixed at Rs 11 lakh. Taking possible price increases into account, the maximum estimated cost per kiosk is Rs 13.20 lakh.
The government will bear either 80 per cent of the prescribed unit cost or the actual construction cost, whichever is lower. Agencies or contractors for construction will be selected through a tendering process, while kiosk operators will be appointed in accordance with the prescribed rules and conditions.
The selected operators will be responsible for the maintenance and regular functioning of the centres.
Better Markets for Fish Farmers, More Employment Opportunities
The scheme also provides for training and capacity-building programmes for kiosk operators. The Directorate of Fisheries or BAIDCL will develop an organised supply chain to ensure a regular supply of fish to the outlets.
The initiative is expected to create better marketing opportunities for fish farmers, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and fisheries co-operative societies, enabling them to bring their produce directly into organised urban markets.
By improving market access, strengthening supply chains and creating opportunities for kiosk operations, the government aims to support the fisheries sector while generating employment and improving the income of those dependent on it.
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