The Department of Dairy, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries is preparing to launch 10 new fish outlets in Patna this April. These centers will offer locally sourced live fish to the residents of the capital. A key feature of these outlets is the home delivery service which will be managed through a dedicated mobile app and WhatsApp. This initiative aims to provide high-quality fish while supporting local fish farmers and women in the sector.
How will the new fish delivery system work?
The state government is developing a mobile application with Google Maps integration to facilitate efficient delivery services. In the first phase of this project, 30 outlets will open across the state starting next month. The department officials, including Secretary Shirsat Kapil Ashok and Fisheries Director Dilip Kumar, have focused on creating a streamlined process to connect producers directly with consumers under the proposed brand name Fresh Catch. Recently, the government also made licenses mandatory for all meat and fish shops in urban areas to ensure organized retail.
Costs and production data for fish outlets
The department has invited applications for setting up these outlets with a significant subsidy of 80 percent. This move is expected to boost the fisheries sector in Bihar, which currently ranks fourth in the country for fish production. The state has reached an annual production of 9.59 lakh metric tons, showing a growth of nearly 10 percent in a single year.
| Type of Location | Estimated Cost/Fee |
|---|---|
| Municipal Areas (Patna) | ₹15,000 |
| Municipal Councils | ₹10,000 |
| Government Subsidy | 80% |
| National Ranking | 4th Position |
Bihar has seen its fish production double over the last decade due to the adoption of scientific farming techniques. Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena has already stated that all vendors must operate from licensed shops to maintain hygiene and standards. These new outlets will further strengthen the supply chain and provide consumers with fresh options at their doorstep.
