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Studies have revealed that high consumption of fish can reduce protein deficiency. Daily fish consumption of a Sri Lankan is 31 grams and in order to avoid protein deficiency the consumption of fish should be increased up to 60 grams per day. This was revealed at a progress review meeting of the Fisheries and Aquatic resources Ministry held at temple trees yesterday (15).

President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated that the annual fish production should increase from 339,730 to 685,690 Metric tons to achieve this goal. He also emphasized on the need to safeguard both Fisherman and the consumer in this process. Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic resources Rajitha Senarathna stated that the ministry plans to reduce the number of individuals suffering from Protein deficiency to 0% which at present stands as 21% according to World Bank reports. Further discussions were held to provide fish for reasonable prices to the public and to use new technology to increase the production.

Measures are already taken to implement a pension scheme and to launch an insurance policy to the Fishing community. Minister further stated that the government hopes to introduce a low rate loan scheme along with the Bank of Ceylon to buy fishing equipment. Steps have been taken to modernize Multi day fishing boats under the RSW technology and it will help catch more fish in the deep sea. President Rajapaksa instructed to build an ice factory in Kilinochchi to meet ice demand as well.

@ LANKAPUVATH