Tripura Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das on Friday said that the state would not face any shortage of fish even if Bangladesh stops exporting to Tripura, as India has enough production capacity to meet the demand.

Speaking at a programme on the occasion of World Fisheries Day, the minister extended his wishes to fish farmers and acknowledged their contribution to the sector.

“On this day, we must remember the fish farmers whose relentless efforts ensure a steady supply of fish for the people,” Das said.

Highlighting the significance of fish in the diet of Tripura, the minister stated that nearly 98% of the state’s population consumes fish regularly.

He noted that although demand remains high, the Fisheries Department is working diligently to make Tripura self-sufficient in fish cultivation. “We have not yet reached complete self-sufficiency, but we are moving in that direction. As per last year’s figures, the state required 1.20 lakh metric tons of fish, while production stood at 89,000 MT. The deficit is currently met through imports from Andhra Pradesh, Bangladesh, and West Bengal,” he said.

Das added that even if Bangladesh discontinues fish exports to Tripura, India has the capacity to compensate through domestic production.

He further emphasized that the government aims to achieve full self-reliance under schemes like the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and the Chief Minister Matsya Vikas Yojana, under which several steps are being undertaken to boost fish production in the state.