However, the Mizoram Government wants local fish farmers to increase production to the extent that they can start exporting fish outside the State, The Assam Tribune reports.
NLUP is a pilot project of the Congress-led Mizoram Government under which efforts are being made to provide alternative means of livelihood to the farmers who are heavily dependent on jhumming which is considered detrimental to the environment.
Pig farming, bee-keeping, fish-farming, grape cultivation, etc., are some of the fields the government is encouraging the local people to pursue by providing financial assistance.
Meanwhile, the Mizoram Co-operative Fish Farming Marketing and Processing Federation Ltd. (ZOFISFED) has organised an annual general assembly-cum-awareness campaign for Integrated Fish Farming Programme recently where Mizoram Co-operation Minister JH Rothuama was present.
The Federation has resolved to adopt 'fish farming as a tool for self-sufficiency' as its yearly theme during the assembly. Minister Rothuama expressed happiness over Mizo fish farmers for their work and also said that the practice of fish farming has been increasing which is a good sign for fish lovers in the State. The minister added that having locally produced own fish in the market is a boon and hopes that in the coming days, Mizoram will not depend on fish imports.
The State Government has introduced NLUP for the upliftment and development of farmers in the State. The Minister also believes that NLUP will serve as a tool for long-term development of the State in various fields.
