The state government has taken several ambitious steps to promote economic activities in the state during COVID-19. Special efforts are being made for development in Micro, Small and Medium enterprises, Horticulture, Agriculture and allied sectors in the state. Fisheries production is the main source of earning livelihood of thousands of people in the state and this sector has an important role in supporting the economy of the state.The COVID-19 epidemic has also adversely affected fisheries production activities in the state. In order to get is sector out of recession, the state government granted permission on April 20, 2020 to fishermen to catch fish in reservoirs and rivers. The Government took several steps to encourage fisheries activities and 76 , 650 fish seeds were made available to the fishermen and 77 245 fish seeds were placed in fish cages at Bhakra Dam, Bilaspur.Trout fish of Himachal Pradesh is in great demand across the country. In order to maintain the production rate of trout fish in the state, 5,900 kg trout feed was provided to various trout farms in different parts of the state and 3,239 kg trout feed was also provided to private trout farmers. After 20 April, 2020 17549 kg fish were sold in various retail outlets in the state.
During the lockdown fishermen were made aware of measures to avoid corona virus, maintaining cleanliness and social distancing by department of Fisheries. Fishing equipment, rooks, nets, etc. are being constantly sanitized along with issuing transport passes to the fishermen. Fisheries of department is also providing other essential services to fishermen.Efficient efforts are also being made by the Department of Fisheries for the efficient implementation of various schemes along with research and development works while ensuring compliance of social distancing rules.Central Government has recently made provision of Rs. 20 thousand crore for fishermen, Rs. 11 thousand crore for encouraging marine and inland activities and Rs. nine thousand crore for necessary infrastructure for fishermen under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. This will also encourage fisheries and other activities in Himachal Pradesh.Various steps are being taken by the Fisheries Department in the state to provide all possible assistance to the families and farmers associated with fisheries activities during the lockdown. During the nationwide lockdown it is being endeavoured to strengthen their economy and implement various welfare schemes in a time bound manner.