‘Fisheries industry, a service to reduce malnutrition’

Ridma Dissanayake

Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne presenting appointment letters to the new project officers. NAQDA Chairman Jayantha Chandrasoma is also in the picture.

‘Fisheries industry is not only an employment avenue. It is a service to reduce malnutrition among children. Therefore the industry has a great responsibility, said Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Rajitha Senaratne addressing the ceremony held to distribute appointment letters to the newly appointed aquatic project officers at the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) recently.

Eighteen project officers had received appointments under this programme.

Inland fishery is contributing to Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry by providing 12 percent of the total fish production.

Inland fish production and ornamental fish export in 2010 had increased by 10.3 percent compared to 2009. Ornamental fish export had earned over Rs 500 million in 2010, the minister.

Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry has made all arrangements to increase the inland and sea fish production by 6.85 million metric tons and increase fish consumption by 10 kilos in 2013, he noted.

NAQDA Chairman Jayantha Chandrasoma and Director General Nimal Chandraratne also participated.