Ampati, Nov 28: The 2nd District Aqua Fest 2024 for South West Garo Hills was successfully held on Thursday at the Office of the Superintendent of Fisheries, Ampati, bringing together farmers, officials, and banking representatives to discuss and promote sustainable fisheries practices in the region.
Key dignitaries at the event included R Z D Shira, ADC and Project Director of DRDA, South West Garo Hills, who served as the Chief Guest, along with J.H. Suchiang, Joint Director of Fisheries, R.B. R Marak, Deputy Director of Fisheries, K.N. Sangma, Assistant Director of Fisheries, and Smt. R.V. Ch. Sangma, Superintendent of Fisheries, Ampati.
District heads, officers from various departments, and representatives from the Meghalaya Cooperative Apex Bank (MCAB) and State Bank of India (SBI) also attended the event to provide inputs to the farmers.
An awareness campaign on the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme and National Fisheries Development Portal (NFDP) registration, aimed at empowering fish farmers with knowledge and resources was also held at the fest.
The Project Director of DRDA, R Z D Shira, emphasized the role of banking institutions in supporting farmers and encouraged responsible loan repayment practices. He also stressed the importance of the NFDP in promoting sustainable fishery practices and addressing financial challenges in the sector.
Joint Director of Fisheries, J H Suchiang, highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the continued growth and development of fisheries in the region.
Over 50 fish farmers participated in the event, gaining valuable insights and engaging directly with officials and experts. Awards were presented to outstanding contributors to the fisheries sector.
Nobin Arengh of Betasing C&RD Block received the award for Best Progressive Farmer and Rupam Koch also from Betasing C&RD Block was recognized as the Best Value-Added Fishery Entrepreneur.
