Resource use pattern, institutional arrangements and socio-economic analysis of fish farming in Manipur, India

Abstract

North East (NE) India produced 0.34 million metric tonnes (mmt) of fish from the total inland water bodies of 0.56 million hectares during 2012-13 registering a productivity of about 600 kg/ha. To bridge the supply demand gap, NE India depends on 90,000 tonnes of fish brought in from other states of India. This study examines the resources, resource use pattern and, socio-economic conditions of fish farmers in Manipur. It also examines the institutional and credit arrangement for fisheries in NE India; potential linked credit plans, projection for fisheries sector as well as refinance disbursement in the fisheries sector in NE Indian states in general and Manipur in particular. Fish production in NE Indian states ranged from 0.24 mmt in 2005 and increased to 0.36 mmt in 2013. Socio-economic analysis of fish farmers of Manipur revealed that aquaculture of Indian major carps (IMC) was an engaging economic activity among the stake holders sampled. Fish farmers identified IMC aquaculture as a safe and sustainable means of livelihood.