Kargil, November 21: Hon’ble Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, today attended the World Fisheries Day celebration as the Chief Guest. The event was organized by the Department of Fisheries, Kargil, where all dignitaries were warmly welcomed with traditional Khataks.
The programme began with a welcome speech by the Assistant Director Fisheries, Mohd Amin who expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon for his continued support and keen interest in the growth of the fisheries sector.
He highlighted the importance of celebrating World Fisheries Day as a means to encourage entrepreneurs, acknowledge the contribution of fish farmers, and promote awareness about the fisheries industry.
He briefed the audience on the PMMSY scheme, shared key statistics, and spoke about the rapid rise in fish consumption, which has increased nearly eightfold in recent years. He also discussed trout fish production, emerging challenges in the district, and the importance of integrating tourism with fisheries.
Additionally, he encouraged farmers to apply for the scooter-with-ice-box initiative launched by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Kavinder Gupta to strengthen fish marketing and transportation.
In his address, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon extended warm congratulations to the Fisheries Department for their dedication and achievements in strengthening the fisheries sector in Kargil. He emphasized the growing economic potential and health benefits of aquaculture and highlighted the importance of preserving Ladakh’s endemic fish species through research-based initiatives.
Dr. Akhoon assured that fisheries-related works will be incorporated into the next financial year’s District Capex Plan and stated that subsidies for fisheries-based initiatives will be enhanced in the coming years. He reaffirmed the continued support of LAHDC Kargil toward the development and expansion of the sector.
Executive Councillor LAHDC Kargil, Kacho Mohammad Feroz, also spoke on the occasion, stressing the need for sustainable growth in the fisheries sector and highlighting the importance of research and policy support. He urged Dr. Basharat ( University of Ladakh) to submit proposal aimed at conservation and development, assuring that LAHDC Kargil would consider new policy to protect endemic fish species of the region.
He also called for the establishment of a fish feed mill in Kargil and encouraged fish farmers to become role models for unemployed youth, motivating them to enter the fisheries sector and establish their livelihood ventures. He assured that LAHDC Kargil will continue to extend all necessary support.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho, congratulated the Fisheries Department for successfully organizing the event. He spoke about the exponential increase in fish production and consumption in the district and highlighted several success stories of progressive farmers. He noted that despite having limited manpower, the department has been performing commendably by generating employment and expanding fish production for public consumption.
He added that while government jobs cannot be guaranteed for everyone, schemes like these are creating meaningful employment opportunities across the district, and he expressed optimism for continued growth.
DSHO Kargil, Dr. Niyaz-ul-Hassanain, addressed fish farmers and emphasized the health benefits, economic potential, and nutritional value of fish. He spoke about the importance of local products and the need to identify suitable fish feed through scientific research and innovation.
Dr. Basharat Ali, Assistant Professor at the University of Ladakh, highlighted the economic and health benefits of the fisheries sector and expressed gratitude to the Fisheries Department for their dedicated services. He discussed major challenges in aquaculture in Kargil and emphasized the need to find alternative fish feed suitable for the region. He informed that the University of Ladakh has submitted a proposal to the Government of India on this issue. He also called for surveys to collect data on Ladakh’s native fish species to support conservation and future planning.
Councillor Drass, Abdul Wahid, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts of the Fisheries Department.
Progressive farmer Haji Wahid shared his experiences and success in the fisheries sector, inspiring young entrepreneurs.
The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to beneficiaries from various blocks in recognition of their dedication and commitment to fisheries development in Kargil.
Among those present at the event were Executive Councillor LAHDC Kargil, Kacho Mohammad Feroz; Executive Councillor LAHDC Kargil, Zakir Hussain; Councillor Drass, Abdul Wahid; Councillor Shargole, mohd javed; Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho; Assistant Director Fisheries, Mohammad Amin; DSHO Kargil, Dr. Niyaz-ul-Hassanain; Dr. Basharat from the University of Ladakh; and beneficiaries from different blocks of the district.
