SHILLONG:
Fisheries Minister AL Hek on 14 announced the department’s decision to constitute a fact finding committee to find out the truth into the alleged sale of formalin-laced fish imported from outside the state.
The decision was made during a meeting between the fisheries department and the associations of fish growers, wholesalers, and retailers. Hek told the media that the associations had produced an inspection report from the Government of Andhra Pradesh’s Rask Force Team, which stated that “no formalin/ammonia/banned/toxic products/chemicals applied in any manner in the fish now tested and intended for exports to other markets.” After 30 out of 42 samples tested positive for ‘formalin,’ the state’s Food and Safety department recently banned the sale of imported fish for 15 days.
“As a result, we have decided to form a fact-finding committee to ascertain the truth.” I informed the department’s Secretary that we should have the report within a day or two,” Hek said.
He also stated that the current ban on the sale of fish should not last too long since it will harm the livelihoods of fish dealers. “I believe we should have one unloading centre where they can check all these fish coming into the state from different parts of the country,” he continued. When questioned, the minister stated, “Anything that is illegal, we will take action on.” The government will make a decision on the issue.” On the success rate of the aquaculture mission in Meghalaya, Hek stated that the mission has increased fish output in the state from 32% to 50%, adding that there are many successful stories of the mission.
“We want as much as possible that people should start their own livelihood by doing this kind of farming. Land is available in all rural areas. This will help stop migration from rural to urban areas and also ensure sustainable livelihood,” he added.
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