Centre launches country’s first organic fish cluster in Sikkim

Union Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the country’s first organic fisheries cluster in Sikkim on Monday (January 6, 2024). The Union Fisheries Ministry said the organic fish cluster in Soreng District of Sikkim will boost farmer incomes and promote sustainability in aquaculture. The project aims to sell antibiotic, chemical, and pesticide free organic fish in eco-conscious markets across the globe.

Mr. Singh also inaugurated and laid the foundations for 50 key projects worth ₹50 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), covering all northeastern states except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram in Guwahati. “The Government of Sikkim has already embraced organic farming, which has helped in building a strong reputation for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices. Introducing organic fisheries and aquaculture will align with the state’s broader vision of promoting organic, sustainable, and environmentally friendly practices across all sectors,” the Fisheries Ministry said in a statement.

It added that the organic fisheries cluster focuses on an ecologically healthy fish farming system avoiding chemicals, antibiotics, and pesticides. “This also ensures minimal environmental pollution and prevents damage to aquatic ecosystems, contributing to sustainable fish production practices,” the Ministry claimed.