MOKOKCHUNG — The Tuli Area Fishery Cooperative Farmer Producer Organisation Ltd. (TAFCFPOL) successfully organised the Ango Benjongmong (fish festival), a celebration of the region’s rich aquaculture traditions, supported by NABARD in partnership with Community Educational Centre Society (CECS), Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and Nagaland BioResource Mission for marketing and packaging on Thursday.
The festival brought together fish farmers, stakeholders, government representatives and the community to showcase local fish produce, promote sustainable fish farming and foster economic development in the region.
The festival was inaugurated by the A Pangjung Jamir, advisor of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, who commended the collaboration between farmers, CECS and NABARD for making a significant milestone for the fishery sector in the region.
He stated that the government is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance sustainable livelihoods and reinforce local economy and also shared on the government’s upcoming project on integrated aqua park in Tzudikong under Tuli sub-division, which would be one of the biggest aqua parks in the state.
The director of Community Educational Centre Society, Subonenba Longkumer, expressed gratitude to all the participants, farmers and partners for their contributions in making the festival a success.
"This event has united our community and marked the significance of sustainable development in the fishery sector," he said and lauded the efforts of TAFCFPOL and NABARD in driving progress.
The chief general manager of NABARD, Tiakala Ao, highlighted the remarkable advancements made through the project.
"This initiative exemplifies how community-driven efforts can create a lasting impact," she said and encouraged local farmers to adopt innovative practices and fully utilise the resources provided by NABARD.
Dr. Krualalie Tsurho, team leader of Nagaland BioResource Mission, stressed on the importance of value addition in fish farming, discussing opportunities for products such as dried fish and fish-based snacks to boost farmers' incomes.
P Mangyang, a beneficiary of ITDP project, shared his transformative journey towards sustainable farming through the ITDF project, highlighting increased productivity and better market access.
Rongsennungba, director of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, said that the farmer producer company is an example of how community-driven initiatives can create lasting impact. He added that the department remains committed to supporting projects that drive sustainable development and uplift rural livelihoods.
He further encouraged the farmers to continue adopting innovative practices and make full use of the resources provided through various department supports.
The sub-inspector registrar has congratulated TAFCFPOL for its first kind registered fishery company in Nagaland and encouraged the farmers to elect competent persons for managing the company.
The event was marked by vibrant cultural performances, traditional fish cuisines, local craft exhibitions, family-friendly activities and expert sessions on sustainable fish farming practices.
The festival provided a platform for fish farmers to engage with potential buyers, explore value-added opportunities and share their experiences in sustainable aquaculture.
The Integrated Tribal Development Fund project has made significant strides in empowering 200 fishery farmers in Tuli through pond revitalisation, hatchery construction and skill enhancement, promoting a sustainable model that integrates fish, poultry, tapioca and banana farming.
The success of the Ango Benjongmong Festival marked an important step forward in the region's aquaculture development, promising continued economic and social benefits for the community.