'Assam Matsya Mahotsav' fish festival in Guwahati

Guwahati, Feb 5 (ANI): Assam, which is one of the largest consumers of fish in the country and is trying hard to become self sufficient in fish production, recently organised fifth Assam Matsya Mahotsav to promote fish production in the State.

The fish festival was held from January 27-29 at Shilpgram in Guwahati.

The festival brought together national-level institutions, scientists and farmers who are working for a Blue Revolution in Assam.

It promoted fish farming among the youth and aimed at disseminating latest information regarding fish production among farmers.

The main feature of the event was the inauguration of "ANGLING PARK" at the historic NAK-KATA pond in Guwahati. It will also serve as a breeding ground for ornamental fish, which has a growing market in Assam.

Nurjamal Sarkar, Minister Fisheries Department said: "This pond will be beneficial for the people of Guwahati as they can come here and relax. I feel that such kind of facility should be started in every city.

"Our government is helping the youth by providing them loans to start their won fishery business. At this festival people can come learn more about fish farming," said Pulak Banerjee, a resident.

Many seminars and competitions were also organized that were addressed by experts who provided details about latest fish farming technologies.

During the event various stalls selling traditional fish catching equipment were set up for the visitors.

During 2009-10, 2.18 lakh tonnes of fish was produced against the 2.06-lakh tonnes produced during 2008-09.

With a gradual increase in the production of fish, Assam hopes to become self-sufficient in producing fish in the next couple of years. (ANI)