The 1st North Eastern Region Fish Festival–Assam 2026 was inaugurated in Guwahati by North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. 

• The two-day festival aims to promote fisheries development and strengthen market linkages across the Northeast.

Key Highlights

• Technical sessions on sustainable aquaculture and fish value chains.
• Exhibition of value-added fish products and innovative practices.
• Participation of policymakers, experts, entrepreneurs and fish farmers.
• Cultural programmes showcasing the region’s aquatic heritage.

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development highlighted its support in promoting 12 Fish Farmer Producer Organizations in Assam, strengthening organized fisheries.

Significance of Fisheries Development

• Fisheries are a major livelihood source in the Northeast.
• Enhances market access and income generation for fish farmers.
• Supports implementation of national initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, which focuses on sustainable fisheries development.
• Encourages community-based and climate-resilient aquaculture.

The festival marks a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region, creating opportunities for collaboration and inclusive growth in the fisheries sector.

Exam Hook: 

With reference to fisheries development in India, consider the following statements:

1. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana aims to promote sustainable fisheries.
2. Fish Farmer Producer Organizations help in collective marketing and input support.
3. Fisheries have no role in livelihood generation in the North Eastern Region.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

One-line wrap: The Fish Festival reflects the Northeast’s growing focus on sustainable aquaculture and farmer-centric market development.

SOURCE