Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Shri M Asnikumar Singh, Chairman of the Loktak Development Authority (LDA), attended as Chief Guest at the Fish Farmers’ Awareness Programme and the Distribution of Fisherman Cards under the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) held at Haoreng Chingang Community Hall, Thanga-I. The event, organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur, in collaboration with Sinheibi Development Organisation, marked a significant step in empowering fishing communities and fostering sustainable fisheries development in the state.
The programme witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Shri Elangbam Rameshwor Singh, District Fishery Officer, Bishnupur; Shri N. Dinesh Singh, Zila Parishad Member, Thanga; and Dr N. Yaima Singh, Retired Deputy Director, ICMR. A large number of community leaders, women, and members of fishing communities from Thanga also participated.
As part of the event, over 600 fishermen received their Fisherman Cards, which are recognised by the Government of India. These cards come with significant benefits, including free life insurance coverage of ₹5 lakhs and access to various welfare schemes under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY).
In his address, Shri M Asnikumar Singh highlighted the commitment of both the Union Government under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the State Government under Chief Minister Shri N Biren Singh to the welfare of fishing communities. “Today’s initiative is one of many steps towards achieving sustainable growth in the fisheries sector and ensuring the prosperity of our fishing communities,” he stated.
He also shared how the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) is designed to transform the lives of our fishing communities by providing access to institutional financing for small and micro-enterprises in the fisheries sector, enabling them to grow and thrive, offering one-time incentives to beneficiaries for purchasing aquaculture insurance, providing a safety net against unforeseen challenges. He shared how the scheme supports the adoption and expansion of fish and fishery product safety and quality assurance systems, ensuring sustainable growth for the sector and how it is a a comprehensive approach aimed at empowering our communities while fostering long-term development.
The Chairman praised the Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur, and Sinheibi Development Organisation for their efforts in organising the programme and for their dedication to uplifting the fishing communities in Manipur.
The event underscores the government’s vision of transforming the fisheries sector through financial and technological interventions, fostering institutional reforms, and enabling sustainable, long-term growth.
