Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Nidhi Malik, today distributed seven ice boxes among fishermen and fish farmers of the District under the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP). The initiative forms part of the district administration’s sustained efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector and improve the socio-economic conditions of fishing communities.
The initiative aims to promote cluster-based development of local enterprises and livelihoods. Under JKCIP, support is provided to small-scale producers, including farmers, artisans and fishermen, through the provision of modern tools, capacity-building and improved market linkages.
The programme seeks to strengthen local economies, enhance income opportunities and encourage sustainable growth in the region. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the crucial role of fishermen in the district’s economy and emphasised the importance of equipping them with modern infrastructure to improve storage and transportation of their produce.
She noted that the ice boxes would help maintain the freshness of fish for longer durations, reduce post-harvest losses and enable fishermen to access wider markets, thereby enhancing their income. The DC further stated that the Fisheries Department is playing a vital role in uplifting the livelihoods of traditional fishermen and fish farmers through need-based and practical interventions under JKCIP.
She stressed that effective post-harvest management is a key component in increasing incomes and ensuring long-term sustainability in the fisheries sector. She added that the distributed ice boxes would significantly contribute to maintaining the quality and freshness of fish, ensuring that consumers receive safe, hygienic and high-quality produce.
Such initiatives, she said, benefit producers while also strengthening consumer confidence in locally produced fish. Reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive development, the Deputy Commissioner said focused attention is being given to vulnerable communities, with special emphasis on engaging youth in gainful livelihood activities and bringing them into the mainstream of economic growth.
She urged the beneficiaries to make optimal use of the assets and adopt best practices in hygienic fish handling and marketing. Assistant Director Fisheries Masood Anwar, along with officers and officials of the Fisheries Department and a large number of beneficiaries were present on the occasion.