Fish farmers key pillar of rural economy, food security: Sikkim CM

Gangtok, Jul 10 (PTI) Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Friday lauded the contribution of fish farmers to the state's rural economy and said his government was committed to transforming the fisheries sector into a modern, self-reliant and sustainable industry. In a message posted on social media on National Fish Farmers Day, Tamang described fish farmers as "an indispensable pillar of rural livelihoods, food security, and the state's economic prosperity" and extended greetings to fish farmers and fisheries stakeholders across the state and the country. "The government of Sikkim is committed to the welfare and empowerment of every fish farmer. We firmly believe that a self-reliant fisheries sector is integral to the larger vision of a self-reliant state," Tamang said. Highlighting the state's recent initiatives, the CM pointed to the successful organisation of the first-ever Sikkim Fish Festival in Siliguri, which showcased the state's premium rainbow trout, indigenous fish varieties and value-added products. He said the event created new marketing opportunities for local producers and reflected the government's efforts to expand the reach of Sikkim's fisheries sector beyond the state. Calling for greater collaboration among farmers, scientists, entrepreneurs and institutions, the CM urged the younger generation to view fisheries as a promising and dignified profession. "I am confident Sikkim's fisheries sector will emerge as a model of sustainable, self-reliant development, contributing meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Sikkim and Viksit Bharat 2047," he said. PTI COR MNB