Rajeev Ranjan Launches Major Initiatives to Boost Fisheries Sector at 4th Year of PMMSY

The NFDP will formalize the sector by creating digital identities for workers and enterprises, making it easier for them to access government benefits.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), announced a series of transformative initiatives aimed at advancing India's fisheries sector during the 4th anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in New Delhi. The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Shri George Kurian, along with other senior officials from various states and international delegations from countries including France, Russia, Australia, and Norway.

Among the key highlights, the Minister launched the National Fisheries Development Program (NFDP) Portal, a comprehensive registry for fisheries stakeholders across India, providing access to services like institutional credit and aquaculture insurance. The NFDP will formalize the sector by creating digital identities for workers and enterprises, making it easier for them to access government benefits.

Shri Singh also distributed Registration Certificates to beneficiaries from various states, including Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh. In addition, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Production and Processing Clusters was released, alongside the announcement of three specialized fisheries clusters focused on Pearl Cultivation, Ornamental Fisheries, and Seaweed Cultivation.

A major highlight was the launch of guidelines for developing 100 Climate Resilient Coastal Fishermen Villages (CRCFVs) across India, with an allocated budget of Rs 200 crore. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and livelihoods for coastal fishing communities while promoting sustainable fishing practices.

The Minister also introduced a Pilot Project on the use of drones for fish transportation, in collaboration with the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), to explore the role of drones in improving inland fisheries management.

Further enhancing research and innovation in the sector, Shri Singh unveiled plans for a Mandapam Regional Centre of Excellence dedicated to seaweed farming and research, as well as Nucleus Breeding Centres for genetic enhancement of marine and inland fish species. Additionally, three Incubation Centres will be established to support over 100 fisheries start-ups and entrepreneurs.

The event also saw the release of booklets on the promotion of indigenous fish species and state fish conservation efforts, along with the announcement of Rs 721.63 crore in priority projects, including five Integrated Aqua Parks, two world-class fish markets, and three smart fishing harbors.

In his address, Shri Singh emphasized the transformative impact of PMMSY, which represents the highest-ever investment in India's fisheries sector at Rs 20,050 crore. He highlighted the Vessel Communication & Support System, launched by Prime Minister Modi, which will see the installation of 1 lakh transponders on fishing vessels to ensure safety and communication for fishermen at sea.

The initiatives unveiled are expected to significantly strengthen India's fisheries sector, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing livelihood opportunities as part of the government’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047.