A special relief programme for small-scale ornamental fish producers affected by Cyclone ‘Ditwa’ was held yesterday (6) at the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) under the patronage of the Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, and Deputy Minister Ratna Gamage.

During the programme, cheques were presented to 28 ornamental fish farmers in the Colombo District. A total of Rs. 4.65 million has been allocated for 83 beneficiaries across the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kurunegala and Kegalle. In addition, relief is scheduled to be extended to another 40 growers in the districts of Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Anuradhapura and Puttalam.

Addressing the event, the Minister announced a significant policy decision aimed at strengthening the country’s ornamental fish industry. He instructed the National Aquaculture Development Authority to import advanced brood stock of new ornamental fish species that are not currently available in Sri Lanka every three months, ensuring the sector remains aligned with international standards. In a context where new fish species have not been introduced for many years, this will provide farmers with the opportunity to target their products to the international market.

Speaking at the event, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar said:

“The ornamental fish industry suffered an economic loss of approximately Rs. 307 million due to Cyclone ‘Ditwa’. Our farmers were also severely affected by rising fuel prices amid the global political crisis. Despite these challenges, the present government remains committed to revitalising the industry and fulfilling the promises made to the people. Our goal is to establish Sri Lanka as a leading global hub for the ornamental fish trade.”

The event was attended by several officials and representatives of the ornamental fish industry, including Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, and Kithsiri Dharmapriya, Chairman of the National Aquaculture Development Authority.