Governor Urges Youth to Take Up Fisheries, Animal Husbandry

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Friday called upon the youth of the state to explore fisheries and animal husbandry as modern, technology-driven and profitable sectors, encouraging them to view these fields as platforms for innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership.

The Governor was speaking at the closing ceremony of the State-level Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Fair, Matsya-Pranee Samavesh Odisha-2026, held at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kambhampati said fisheries and animal husbandry are no longer limited to traditional practices but have evolved into dynamic sectors offering wide-ranging opportunities in areas such as hatcheries, dairy units, poultry farms, feed production, processing units, pet care services and fisheries logistics. With proper skill development and innovation, he said, young people can build successful enterprises while contributing to economic growth.

Highlighting the historical importance of the sector, the Governor said fisheries and allied activities have long played a crucial role in ensuring food security, supporting rural livelihoods and strengthening the economy. Their continued growth, he added, is essential for Odisha’s overall development and aligns with the vision of Viksit Odisha, contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat.

He also commended both the State and Central governments for implementing farmer- and fisher-friendly schemes such as Mukhyamantri Kamdhenu Yojana, Mukhyamantri Matsyajibi Kalyan Yojana, Prani Sampad Samrudhi Yojana, along with national initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. These schemes, he noted, have helped improve incomes and promote scientific practices.

Dr. Kambhampati said Odisha possesses immense potential in fisheries and animal husbandry due to its long coastline, rich water resources and hardworking farming community. He added that strengthening processing units, cold storage facilities and marketing infrastructure could generate large-scale employment and help the state emerge as a major hub for animal and fish products.

Expressing confidence in collective efforts, the Governor said coordinated action would pave the way for a resilient, prosperous and inclusive Odisha.