New Delhi, 30 August (H.S.): Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan will launch the strategic action plan, “Mission Rangin Machhli 2031,” for expanding ornamental fish farming in Lakshadweep on Monday.

According to the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the programme will be organised by the ministry in Agatti, Lakshadweep. The strategic action plan will provide a uniform framework for scientific management, biosecurity, quality standards and regulatory compliance across the entire ornamental fisheries value chain.

The Central Government has adopted a cluster-based approach to promote integrated and value-chain-driven development in the fisheries sector. In line with this approach, Lakshadweep has been designated as a dedicated seaweed cluster to promote seaweed cultivation, processing, value addition and market linkages.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the initiative will streamline and standardise processes related to health management, transportation and trade. This is expected to ensure greater uniformity in practices across the country and encourage the adoption of best practices.

The initiatives will also help strengthen the capacity of stakeholders, improve product quality and biosecurity standards, facilitate certification and enhance access to domestic and international markets.

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, along with Lakshadweep Administrator Praful Khoda Patel, officials from the Department of Fisheries, representatives of the Lakshadweep administration, fisheries clusters and various ministries and departments, as well as fish farmers and fishermen, are expected to attend the programme.

The launch is part of the government's broader efforts to promote scientific, sustainable and organised growth of the fisheries sector while strengthening value chains and creating better economic opportunities for fish farmers and fishing communities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar