The Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar today inaugurated Business-to-Business (B2B) stall, Aquarium Gallery and conference at the 7th Edition of Aqua Goa Mega Fish Festival at Campal open Field Ground.
Speaking on the occasion the Minister exhorted locals to engage in business and start ups in fisheries. He said the Government is taking steps to ensure fishing is done in a naturally sustainable manner and strike a balance between export of fish and local consumption. Shri Halarnkar further said in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’, they are exploring using new technology to improve fishing and allied activities ensuring that more youth in Goa become job providers in this sector. He also said that the Government is open to enhancing the skills of those in this industry and those wishing to get into it by bringing in more educational curriculum in this segment and for this he said the Directorate is always open for suggestions from the people.
Earlier, Director of Fisheries, Dr Shamila Monteiro, in her welcome address hoped the festival serves an educational purpose and give direction to those, especially the youngsters, in finding a career and developing their skills in fisheries.
Also present on the occasion were Secretary, Fisheries, Shri Sarpreet Singh Gill, IAS, panel of experts, among others.
The Aqua Goa Mega Fish Festival which commenced today will conclude on February 4th. Different fishes from across the country and from Goa can be seen in aquariums. Besides capacity building workshops, there are competitions for children and adults as well.