Fishery Dept told to focus on processing

Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani has asked the Department of Fisheries to focus on processing to tackle the glut of fish in the market with value-added products.

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Dharmani, while speaking at a meeting on Tuesday night, suggested the Fisheries Department to work on schemes linked to tourism activities, according to an official statement issued here today.

The minister said, “All schemes of the department should be made in such a way that they attract the youth, who will then join fish farming.” He added that the state government was giving subsidy up to 80 per cent to people for making fish ponds.

He said that such schemes should be linked to the MGNREGA so that people associated with fish production could get maximum benefits. He added that Bilaspur district was witnessing increased tourism activities because it was connected to Chandigarh, Manali, Dharamsala and Shimla. In such a situation, fish vendor zones should be created in the area from Mandi Bharari to Aauhar and Manali.

Dharmani said that these activities could attract tourists, who could taste dishes made from fish produced in the district. This would provide employment to the local youth and fishermen.

The minister directed the department to organise fish food fairs.