Pakyong, July 30 (IPR): A one day awareness programme on Organic Fish Farming (Promoting Sustainable Aquaculture for a Healthy Planet and a Prosperous Future) was organised by the Fisheries Department, Pakyong District, supported by National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), at Kumari Pema Tseduen Secondary School, Rongli, today.
The programme was attended by Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr Bishnu Kumar Khatiwada, as the Chief Guest along with OSD, Information Technology Department, Mr Bum Tshering Yonzon; Panchayat President, Ms Madhumala Gurung; Additional Director, Fisheries Department, Dr Karma Doma Bhutia; and DFDO, Pakyong, Ms Gauri Mukhia.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest appreciated the Fisheries Department for organising the awareness programme and emphasised the importance of promoting organic fish farming as a sustainable livelihood option. He encouraged the younger generation to explore entrepreneurship and career opportunities in the fisheries sector, stating that with advancements in technology and scientific farming practices, fisheries has emerged as a promising avenue for self-employment, income generation and rural development. He also highlighted the need to adopt sustainable aquaculture practices to ensure food security, environmental conservation and economic growth.
Additional Director, Fisheries Department, Dr Karma Doma Bhutia, conducted a technical session on organic fish farming. She explained the principles and importance of organic aquaculture, highlighting the need to maintain clean and unpolluted water sources, appropriate stocking density to allow natural fish movement and behaviour, and the adoption of environmentally sustainable farming practices. She also elaborated on fish health management, including disease prevention, responsible use of veterinary medicines and antibiotics, and the mandatory withdrawal period before harvest to ensure food safety and compliance with organic farming standards.
She further presented an overview of fish production in Sikkim and discussed the growing scope of the fisheries sector. She informed the students about various career opportunities, including fisheries science, aquaculture, research and entrepreneurship.
DFDO, Pakyong, Ms Gauri Mukhia, delivered a presentation on the rainbow trout of Sikkim, explaining its general characteristics, lifespan, feeding habits, breeding patterns and culture techniques. She also highlighted the nutritional value and health benefits of fish consumption and explained the respiratory system and sensory organs of fishes.
She further briefed the participants on the characteristics and importance of several fish species, including grass carp, Singhi (air-breathing catfish), catfish and ornamental fish. The DFDO also provided information on indigenous fish species found in Sikkim, the state's rich fish diversity and the major threats to aquatic biodiversity, including water pollution, plastic waste, destructive fishing practices and habitat degradation.
At the outset, Chief Guest inaugurated fish kiosks established at Rorathang, Rhenock and Rongli under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) supported by Department of Fisheries, Government of India, and the Department of Fisheries, Government of Sikkim. The fish kiosk sub-scheme under PMMSY provides financial assistance for the establishment of modern and hygienic outlets for the sale of fresh and ornamental fish.
The programme also featured a quiz competition for students, promoting active participation and reinforcing awareness on fisheries and sustainable aquaculture through interactive learning.
The programme was also attended by officials of the Fisheries Department, progressive fish farmers and students.
Report from DIO Pakyong