Fisheries in Assam: Status and Way Forward

Abstract

Assam has rich and diverse fisheries resources in the form of rivers, floodplain wetlands, forest fisheries, ponds, etc. and endowed with rich fish diversity. Total fish production of Assam in 2021-22 was 4,17,000 MT. During 2019-20, the state ranked 12^th in terms of overall fish production and 7^th in inland fish production in the country. The state occupies third position after West Bengal and Jharkhand with respect to fish seed production. Per capita fish consumption in the state stands at 11.72 kg year^-1. Though production has increased over the years, there is still tremendous scope for improvement, considering that majority of its resources is under-utilized till date. Keeping in view these facts, the present article focuses on existing status of fisheries in the state and the measures needed to augment fish production.