Agartala, May 18: Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Union Secretary, Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D, along with Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (Inland), Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D, visited a Hatchery at Nalchar Block in Tripura's Sepahijala district.

He inspected Basundhara Matsya Hatchery established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and reviewed the progress so far.

Following the visit the Union Secretary also interacted with fishermen and fish farmers to understand the gaps and challenges faced by them  on ground.

The Basundhara Matsya Hatchery has been set up under PMMSY with project cost of ₹25 lakhs and now caters to the requirement of more than 200 fish farmers by supplying quality fish seed of various species, including Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Bata, Puntius, Grass Carp, Silver Carp, and Bighead Carp.

The unit currently generates an annual turnover of ₹32 Lakhs with annual income of approximately ₹17 lakhs. It is expected to significantly boost local fish production, providing a reliable source of quality fish seeds to farmers in Tripura. 

This initiative not only aims to increase the income of local fish farmers but also to promote responsible fishing practices that align with environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, the hatchery will serve as a training hub for farmers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to optimize their aquaculture practices and improve their livelihoods.