Patna: Bihar has received the prestigious Agriculture Leadership Award 2025 for its transformational leadership in inland fisheries, rapid sectoral development, and empowering rural livelihoods through sustainable aquaculture. The award recognises exemplary contributions in agriculture and rural development across the country.
Receiving the award on behalf of Bihar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Animal and Fisheries Resources, N Vijayalakshmi, said the achievement reflects the collective efforts of fish farmers, departmental personnel, and the state government, which has enabled Bihar to become self-reliant in fish production.
Over recent years, Bihar has successfully addressed numerous administrative, technical, and land-related challenges in its fisheries sector. The state government has implemented policies to promote planned fish production by ensuring training, grants, technical support, and modern resources for fish farmers. As a result, production capacity has increased significantly.
Previously dependent on importing fish from other states, Bihar has now become self-sufficient and is exporting fish to other parts of India. This shift has strengthened the state’s economy and provided livelihood stability to lakhs of fish farmers.
In 2024–25, Bihar produced 9.5 lakh metric tonnes of fish, achieving 101 percent of its production target. Officials attribute this success to optimal utilisation of Bihar’s climate, resources, and technological innovations. The state’s fish exports have further boosted its rural economy.
The award was presented at the 16th Agriculture Leadership Conclave 2025 organised in New Delhi, where states, institutions, and individuals demonstrating excellence in agriculture were honoured. The ceremony was attended by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, former Chief Justice of India and Awards Committee Chairman P Sathasivam, and other dignitaries.
Speakers at the event praised Bihar’s achievements and highlighted its leadership in fisheries as an inspiration for other states.
