Assessment of fish consumption behaviour and market forecasts for sustainable fisheries in Manipur, India

This study analysed the socio-economic characteristics, consumption behaviour and expenditure patterns of fish-consuming households in Manipur, India, using data from 450 households across six districts belonging to different social background. Secondary data (2015 – 2025) obtained from government records supported a production-requirement forecast. The regression model demonstrated a moderately strong relationship between the predictors and the dependent variable (R² = 0.588; adjusted R² = 0.581). A paired t-test revealed that monthly expenditure on fish alone ₹5,326.88 (~59.20 $) was much higher than other non-vegetarian foods ₹2,310.44, comprising nearly 70% of the total non-vegetarian expenses. Holt’s exponential smoothing model (R² = 0.813, MAPE = 2.71%) projected that fish demand will exceed supply from 2024 – 2029, indicating a widening gap. The study concludes that fish holds cultural and nutritional importance in Manipur and calls for enhanced aquaculture, better market infrastructure, and improved consumer awareness for sustainable fish supply and food security.