DC Kathua distributes insulated ice boxes among fishermen under JKCIP146 fishermen get asset support for better storage and transportation
KATHUA, MAY 04: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today distributed insulated ice boxes among fishermen and fish farmers under the Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) at a function held at DC Office complex.In Kathua district, five blocks viz Barnoti, Billawar, Bani, Kathua and Lohai Malhar have been selected under the project for focused interventions in the fisheries and allied sectors.As part of the programme, 146 fishermen were selected for distribution of insulated ice boxes, while one beneficiary was provided a vending cart to strengthen direct market access and improve livelihood opportunities. DC Rajesh Sharma formally started the distribution of 50-litre and 25-litre capacity ice boxes among the fishermen of Kathua and Barnoti blocks.The provision of insulated ice boxes aims to maintain the freshness and quality of fish by minimizing spoilage and ensuring hygienic handling during storage and transportation, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and enabling better price realization for the fishermen.The DC highlighted that such interventions are aimed at strengthening the traditional fishing community by providing essential infrastructure support and improving their economic sustainability. He emphasized that the project would help in enhancing shelf life of fish produce, improving market linkages and empowering fishermen with better income-generating opportunities.Worthwhile to mention here that, JKCIP is an IFAD-funded initiative aimed at increasing rural household incomes by improving agricultural productivity, climate resilience and market access for around 3 lakh households across Jammu and Kashmir, with special focus on agriculture and allied sectors.IAS Probationer Nidhi, AD Fisheries Kathua Pawan Sharma, besides local beneficiaries were also present.
