Patna: Nabard on Friday sanctioned a Rs195-crore loan to the Bihar govt under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) for creating modern fisheries infrastructure in Siwan district, officials said.The assistance is aimed at increasing fish production and improving the income and livelihoods of people dependent on fisheries.Gautam Kumar Singh, chief general manager of Nabard’s Bihar regional office, said the project would be implemented by the department of fisheries, dairy and animal resources in line with prescribed guidelines.Officials said the sanctioned amount would be used for the creation, development and upgrade of key infrastructure linked to fisheries in the district. The project provides for modern fish farming units, fish seed production centres and hatcheries, fish collection and landing centres, cold storage and cold chain facilities, fish processing and packaging units, modern fish markets, and stronger transportation and marketing systems.It will also support essential facilities for scientific and efficient use of water resources. Officials said the initiative is expected to generate new livelihood and enterprise opportunities for small and marginal fish farmers, fisheries cooperatives, self-help groups, women’s groups and rural youth in Siwan, strengthening the district’s fisheries value chain and rural economy while supporting inclusive growth across local villages and allied services.
