KOKRAJHAR,DEC 16: In a major step towards boosting aquaculture and promoting pearl cultivation in Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), the Department of Cooperation, BTC handed over 5000 pearl mussels to Jwngthi Pearl Production Co-operative Society Ltd at North Chekadani in Kokrajhar district.
The distribution programme was inaugurated by the executive member (EM ) for Cooperation, Govt of BTC Ukil Mushahary, in the presence of CHD Cooperation, Jayanta Kherkatary.
The mussels were ceremoniously released into a designated pond following specific procedures to ensure their survival and growth. The pond, spanning an area of 2 bighas, is expected to yield pearls after a duration of 15 months.
Addressing the gathering, EM Mushahary highlighted the potential of pearl cultivation as a lucrative enterprise that can diversify aquaculture practices in BTR. He further assured the farmers of full support from the department for establishing market linkages, ensuring that the pearls receive proper demand and value in the market. In return, he urged the farmers to work wholeheartedly and put in their best efforts to make the initiative a success.
Earlier this year, in September, BTC Chief Pramod Boro inaugurated a state-of-the-art laboratory at Samabai Bhawan in Titaguri, Kokrajhar, dedicated to facilitating pearl cultivation by ensuring proper surgical procedures for mussel operation. The initiative marks a significant milestone in promoting innovative and eco-friendly practices to empower cooperative societies and boost the rural economy in Bodoland.
The Jwngthi Pearl Production Co-operative Society Ltd. especially, women cooperators expressed gratitude to the Govt. of BTR for the support and assured full efforts towards successful pearl cultivation, which is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the society and the local community. With pearl cultivation gaining momentum, this pilot initiative is poised to create a model for sustainable aquaculture development in the region.
