Fresh catch fish outlets will open on the lines of Sudha sales centers, with live fish available here.
These fish sales centers will be launched in several municipal corporations, including Patna, by the end of this month.
Fish from Bihar is selling for ₹1,500 to ₹1,600 per kg in the global market.
Bihar produces approximately 9 lakh tons of fish, ranking fourth in the world.
Patna, April 10.
Efforts are being made to export fish produced in the state to the global market on a large scale. The government’s aim is to ensure fish farmers receive the highest possible price. Fish from Bihar is in demand worldwide, and many species of fish produced here are selling for ₹1,500 to ₹1,600 per kg in the global market. This was stated by Mr. Surendra Mehta, Minister of Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources, on Friday. He was speaking at a press conference held in the Information and Public Relations Department’s press conference.
He said that the government is making numerous efforts to improve the living standards of fish farmers. By the end of this month, fresh catch fish outlets, modeled after Sudha outlets, will be opened in several municipal corporations, including Patna, selling live fish.
He said that Bihar is an agricultural state, which increases the importance of this department. Our department is continuously striving to increase the income of all poor farmers. Export of milk and milk products abroad has also been initiated, which will benefit the state’s farmers.
On this occasion, Shri Shirsat Kapil Ashok, Secretary of the Dairy, Fisheries and Animal Resources Department, said that efforts are being made to establish dairy cooperative societies in every village and open Sudha outlets in all panchayats. Efforts are also being made to increase milk production through an animal breed improvement program. Arrangements are being made to produce protein-rich animal feed for animals in the state. Efforts are also being made to ensure a balanced diet for cows and other animals. We are also working to ensure 100% vaccination of animals.
Bihar Becomes Self-Sufficient in Milk and Fish Production
At this press conference, Mr. Kapil Ashok stated that Bihar has become self-sufficient in milk and fish. We are also exporting Sudha products abroad, and we are now working to expand this on a larger scale.
We have achieved significant progress in the field of fisheries. Today, we have produced close to 900,000 tons. Ten years ago, we were ranked ninth, but today we have reached fourth. Efforts are underway to establish an integrated command center for fisheries. Efforts are being made to establish a Fisheries Corporation and a Goat Federation in Bihar. We are also implementing a kiosk system through the Federation to ensure access to high-quality meat.
Sudha Sales Centers Will Increase Employment Opportunities
He stated that the establishment of Sudha Sales Centers in every village will increase employment opportunities. Applications are being invited from Jeevika Didi’s benefited by the Women’s Employment Scheme. They will be selected through a lottery system. An 80-square-foot shop is the standard size for a Sudha Sales Center. Others can also apply through COMFED. COMFED Managing Director Mr. Sameer Saurabh and several others were present on the occasion.