Centre will launch pilot project on ornamental fisheries with total outlay of over 61 crore rupees. The major objectives of the pilot project is to promote ornamental fish culture with cluster-based approach, to augment ornamental fisheries trade and export earnings and to create employment opportunities for the rural and periurban population.<br/><br/>Agriculture Ministry in a release said, a total of 8 potential States have been identified including Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Kerala. The project will be implemented by the National Fisheries Development Board through the Fisheries Departments of States and Union territories. Ornamental fishery, is a sub-sector of the fisheries sector dealing with breeding and rearing of coloured fish of both freshwater and marine water. <br/><br/>The ornamental fish industry in India is small but vibrant, with potential for tremendous growth. The low production cost and high returns within a short span of time and the ever growing demand, both in domestic and international markets, are the major attractions.