Push for Self-Sufficiency: CM Highlights Ongoing Initiatives, Urges NEC Support for Key Livestock and Fisheries Projects
Tripura, 17 April 2025: In a high-level virtual meeting convened by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) on Wednesday, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha pressed for substantial financial assistance to make the state self-reliant in the production of milk, fish, eggs, and meat. Participating in the meeting from the State Secretariat, the Chief Minister highlighted various ongoing initiatives of the state government aimed at bolstering animal husbandry and fisheries sectors.
He urged the North Eastern Council (NEC) to extend necessary financial support to scale up these projects over the next five years. Detailed proposals were placed before the DoNER officials, including the creation of new water bodies over 1,000 hectares at a cost of Rs 124 crore, and the renovation of 5,000 hectares of existing ponds with an investment of Rs 425 crore to enhance fish production.
In addition, a Rs 120-crore project was proposed for mixed fish farming in 3,000 hectares, alongside the setting up of a brood bank (Rs 5 crore) and a modern wholesale and retail fish seed market (Rs 10 crore).
For egg production, Dr. Saha proposed the installation of mini hatcheries in every gram panchayat and village committee through self-help and producer groups. He also sought NEC’s support to upgrade six government-run poultry and duck farms.
Stressing the need to enhance meat processing infrastructure, the Chief Minister called for the establishment of an integrated center for meat production, processing, and packaging. Senior officials including Animal Resources Development Secretary Deepa D. Nair, Planning Secretary L.T. Darlong, and ARDD Director Neeraj Kumar Chanchal were present during the meeting.
The conference also delved into broader strategies for economic growth and self-sufficiency in the eight northeastern states, with a focus on harnessing region-specific potential.
READ MORE: Justice Delivered: Agartala Harassment Accused Held, Royal Scion and CM React
