New Delhi, May 26: Fisheries, dairy, and animal husbandry are set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the economy of India’s Northeast, a Union Minister said, stressing the government’s continued focus on expanding rural livelihoods and improving income opportunities in the region.
The minister highlighted that these allied sectors are well-suited to the region’s natural resources and can significantly boost employment, nutrition security, and self-reliant village economies. With the right support, he said, they can become strong engines of inclusive and sustainable growth.
He added that the government is prioritising investments in key enablers such as cold chain networks, veterinary care, quality feed supply, and better market access to improve productivity and ensure farmers receive fair returns.
Capacity-building initiatives and financial support schemes are also being expanded to encourage greater participation of youth and small farmers in these sectors, the minister noted.
Officials said improving transport connectivity and integrating local producers with larger national markets will further strengthen value chains and help farmers access wider demand and better pricing.
The government reiterated its commitment to developing a more diversified rural economy in the Northeast, with fisheries, dairy, and livestock development forming a central part of its long-term development strategy.