ITANAGAR, 25 Jun: The Department of Fisheries on Thursday organised a DFDOs’ conference-cum-chintan baithak at the Pare Hall of DK Convention Centre here under the chairmanship of Fisheries Minister Gabriel D. Wangsu.

The deliberation was attended by MLA Talem Taboh, adviser to the minister; Secretary of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development Department (AHV&DD), YVVJ Rajshekhar, deputy directors, and district fisheries development officers (DFDOs) from across the state.

The conference commenced with a detailed overview by Secretary Rajshekhar, who highlighted the department’s key areas requiring intervention in the fisheries sector.

This was followed by district-wise presentations by the DFDOs on the performance of their respective districts, fund utilisation, manpower availability, infrastructure status and operational challenges. The presentations also highlighted success stories under the ‘Catch Them Young’ initiative, the number of beneficiaries covered under various central and state government schemes, revenue generated by the department, distribution of inputs to farmers, and issues related to banking support.

An extensive open discussion followed, during which officers shared their experiences, concerns and challenges from the field. The session provided a platform for brainstorming on operational bottlenecks and strategies to strengthen the fisheries sector. Several issues raised by the officers were discussed and addressed during the meeting.

MLA Taboh described fisheries as a highly important sector that often receives less attention despite its immense potential. He emphasised that fisheries activities should be carried out in suitable and identified locations, taking advantage of the state’s abundant land and water resources. He urged field officers to ensure that benefits reach genuine farmers “without political considerations,” and suggested that officers themselves take up fisheries activities to motivate and inspire local farmers.

Wangsu in his address urged the officers to work with renewed energy and determination. He said that many people are still unaware of the immense potential of the fisheries sector, and stressed the need to revive the enthusiasm that once existed in the department.

“This department can work like a magic wand if we work in the right direction,” Wangsu said, urging the officers to function in a coordinated manner and focus on long-term planning based on accurate and timely data.

The minister stressed the importance of adhering to timelines in data collection and addressing communication gaps within the department. He highlighted the significance of fish farmer-producer companies (FFPCs) in revitalising the sector, and directed the officers to encourage formation of more cooperative societies and ensure their proper nurturing.

Wangsu also emphasised the need to attract more youths to fisheries and make effective use of the Catch Them Young programme while identifying genuine beneficiaries. He assured the officers that issues related to vehicle procurement and other logistical requirements of the department would be addressed.

The minister further stated that fulfilling the demands of the domestic market should remain the immediate priority before focusing on wider market linkages. He underscored the importance of hatcheries as critical infrastructure for the growth of the fisheries sector,and said the government would seriously explore the establishment of more hatcheries in the state.

Describing the officers as leaders in their respective fields, Wangsu urged them to guide farmers with dedication and sincerity. He assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing departmental requirements and career progression issues.

“You work sincerely for our farmers, and I will do what is best for the department and for your career growth,” he said, expressing confidence that the fisheries sector has the potential to become a major source of employment in the years ahead.

Earlier in the programme, Wangsu released the pictorial Fish Directory – Arunachal Pradesh (Indigenous and Cultivable Fish), a publication of the Fisheries Department, which is expected to serve as a valuable reference resource for farmers and researchers across the state.