Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh chaired a review meeting with Fisheries Department officials on July 13, 2026, to bolster the state’s strategic shift toward indigenous fish production.
The state is significantly reducing fish import costs and expanding aquaculture to meet local demand.
Manipur’s fisheries sector is witnessing a strategic push toward self-sufficiency and indigenous conservation. “To meet local consumption, Manipur now procures only Rs 200 crore worth of fish, down from Rs 400 crore earlier when the state’s production was very low,” officials said.
Currently, the state produces around 4.5 crore kilograms of fish annually, while the actual demand is approximately 6.75 crore kilograms.
In a Facebook post, the Chief Minister wrote: “The Government remains committed to strengthening the fisheries sector by promoting sustainable pisciculture and enhancing the livelihoods of our fishing communities.”
Given the high per capita fish consumption in the state, recent administrative efforts and production advancements are vital. The state’s annual table fish production has reached roughly 37,125 MT, driven by the expansion of scientific aquaculture in natural lakes, wetlands, and private ponds.
To boost native species, the Directorate of Fisheries released around 10 lakh fingerlings into Loktak Lake (Moirang) and launched a massive river ranching drive across 12 major rivers, including the Imphal, Nambul, and Thoubal.
Partnering with ICAR-CIFRI, the state has also expanded reservoir fisheries in the 1,100-hectare Mapithel Reservoir in Kamjong district to generate alternative livelihoods for the tribal population.
Additionally, the Loktak Livelihood Mission focuses on promoting integrated aquaculture and converting invasive phumdis (floating biomass) into organic fertilizer.
Under the National Welfare for Fishermen scheme, the state provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged fishers for constructing low-cost houses, community tanks, and tube wells.
To support local aquapreneurs and celebrate indigenous heritage, platforms like the annual Emoniu Fish Festival and National Fish Farmers’ Day are being actively promoted, providing fishers with direct access to markets.
Regular training sessions on reservoir fisheries management and induced carp breeding are also conducted for local fishermen and women.