Itanagar: A total of 49 farmers from four districts have begun intensive skill training under Arunachal Pradesh’s ‘Catch Them Young’ fisheries programme, launched by fisheries minister Gabriel D Wangsu in Doimukh on Wednesday. The initiative aims to empower unemployed youth and farmers with technical expertise in fish farming, boost production, and promote fisheries as a sustainable livelihood option.Organised by the department of fisheries, the programme aims to equip unemployed educated youth and farmers with technical skills in fisheries and allied sectors, an official report said.Addressing fish farmers from various districts, Wangsu urged them to adopt fish farming as a sustainable livelihood activity. “The govt intends to provide technical knowledge to interested farmers. Lack of skills often leads to failure, which in turn demotivates youth,” he said.He stressed that the initiative seeks to motivate young farmers and provide handholding support, including priority access to schemes such as the Atma Nirbhar Scheme. “It is a small initiative but effective — for the govt and for the farmers themselves,” Wangsu remarked, adding that the programme reflects the sincerity and commitment of the Pema Khandu-led govt.The minister expressed optimism that surplus fish production could be achieved if farmers are adequately skilled.Progressive fish farmers Likha Maj and Tana Hari shared their success stories with the trainees, offering encouragement and practical insights.A total of 49 farmers from Papum Pare, Keyi Panyor, Kra Daadi, and Kamle districts will undergo intensive three-day training at the Fish Farmers’ Training Centre, Emchi, Doimukh. The sessions will cover feed management, breeding, and fish sampling techniques.Also present at the launch were fisheries commissioner Tai Kaye and senior officials of the department.
