BUDGAM, JANUARY 20: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, today distributed 253 units of ice boxes among vulnerable fishers and fish farmers of District Budgam.
The ice boxes have been procured by the Fisheries Department under the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP) as part of sustained efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector and improve the socio-economic conditions of fishing communities.
The initiative has been undertaken with the objective of increasing the shelf life of fish commodities, preventing post-harvest losses, and ensuring hygienic handling of fish, particularly by street fish vendors. The provision of ice boxes will also help fishers and fish farmers avoid distress sales, enabling them to store and transport fish safely and sell their produce at better prices through improved market access.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC Budgam said that the Fisheries Department is playing a vital role in uplifting the livelihoods of traditional fishers and fish farmers by introducing need-based interventions under JKCIP.
He emphasized that post-harvest management is a critical component in enhancing income levels and ensuring sustainability of the fisheries sector.
The DC further stated that the distributed ice boxes would significantly contribute towards maintaining quality and freshness of fish, thereby ensuring that consumers receive safe, hygienic, and high-quality fish at their doorsteps. He added that such initiatives not only benefit producers but also strengthen consumer confidence in locally produced fish.
The DC reiterated the District Administration’s commitment to inclusive development, stating that focused attention is being given to vulnerable and marginalized communities to ensure they are brought into the mainstream of economic growth. He urged beneficiaries to make optimum use of the assets provided and adopt best practices in hygienic fish handling and marketing.
The DC said that the programme is expected to improve living conditions of the downtrodden fishing community, enhance income of fish farmers through better market linkages, and reduce wastage caused by spoilage during transportation and sale. He said that initiative also aligns with the broader objective of promoting sustainable livelihoods and strengthening the rural economy of District Budgam.
On the occasion, Officials of the Fisheries Department were also present, besides various beneficiaries.