Mizoram has marked a significant milestone in its cooperative and fisheries sectors with the launch of the state’s first-ever canned fish production unit by the Zawlnuam Fishery Cooperative. The initiative has been developed under the National Cooperative Development Corporation’s Integrated Cooperative Development Project, highlighting the growing role of cooperatives in value addition and rural enterprise.
The project represents a complete, member-driven value chain, covering fish farming, processing, and canning. The cooperative is producing canned fish using Indian Major Carp, ensuring that the entire operation remains locally anchored and benefits member fish farmers directly. By moving beyond raw fish sales to processed products, the initiative aims to enhance incomes, reduce post-harvest losses, and create local employment.
The canned fish unit is expected to strengthen market access for cooperative members while promoting hygienic and standardised fish products within and beyond the state. Officials associated with the project noted that such integrated models demonstrate how cooperatives can play a transformative role in fisheries-led development, particularly in northeastern states.
The Zawlnuam initiative is being seen as a replicable model for other cooperatives seeking to build sustainable, member-owned agri-processing enterprises.
