Manipur Fish Fair Sets 1.5 Lakh Kg Sales Target for Ningol Chakouba
In preparation for the beloved Ningol Chakouba festival, Manipur organized a bustling fish fair with a goal to sell 1.5 lakh kilograms of diverse fish varieties. The event, held at Hapta Kangjeibung ground in Imphal, was a joint effort by the state fisheries department and local vendors to ensure affordable fish supply while supporting the regional economy. Thousands of buyers flocked to the fair, stocking up for the traditional feast central to Ningol Chakouba celebrations.
Why Fish is Central to Ningol Chakouba Festival
Ningol Chakouba, a festival honoring the bond between brothers and sisters, sees married women returning to their parental homes for a lavish meal where fish is the star dish. The Manipur government’s fish fair offered subsidized prices on local favorites like:
– Ngaton (Manipuri carp)
– Pengba (Osteobrama belangeri)
– Imported varieties like rohu, catla, and mrigal
This initiative ensured families could celebrate without worrying about price surges during peak demand.
Boosting Local Fisheries and Economy
The fair provided a crucial platform for local fishermen and farmers from districts like Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. Fisheries Minister H. Dingo Singh emphasized the event’s dual benefit:
“We’re stabilizing prices for consumers while empowering fish farmers. Our goal is to make Manipur self-sufficient in fish production.”
Imported fish from Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal supplemented local stocks, with strict price monitoring to prevent overcharging.
Overcoming Fish Supply Challenges in Manipur
Due to geographical constraints, Manipur relies heavily on fish imports, leading to occasional supply shortages and price hikes. The fair addressed these issues by:
– Ensuring ample stock before the festival
– Promoting local aquaculture to reduce import dependency
Thoibi Devi, a homemaker from Imphal, shared:
“Last year, fish was too expensive. This fair helps us prepare without stress.”
Long-Term Vision for Manipur’s Aquaculture
Beyond the festival, the government is investing in sustainable fish farming through schemes like:
– Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
– Modern pisciculture techniques
Experts believe Manipur’s water bodies hold untapped potential, possibly turning the state into a fish-exporting hub in the Northeast.
Conclusion: A Festive Win for Manipur
The fish fair not only secured affordable fish for Ningol Chakouba but also strengthened local fisheries and cultural traditions. As families gather for heartfelt celebrations, this initiative sets a model for balancing heritage and economic growth.
