Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 Sparks Innovation
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, hosted the Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 in Hyderabad, Telangana, aiming to enhance innovation and growth within the fisheries sector. The event featured prominent government officials, including Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who launched the National Fisheries Digital Platform Mobile Application and announced the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0, which includes a fund of ₹1 crore to support technological advancements in the industry.
Launch of the National Fisheries Digital Platform
During the conclave, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh unveiled the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) Mobile Application, now available on the Google Play Store. This app is designed to provide startups with easy access to various modules and benefits associated with government schemes. The initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of startups in the fisheries sector, making it easier for them to navigate available resources and support.
The NFDP is part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Yojana (PM-MKSSY), which seeks to empower fishers and aquaculture entrepreneurs. By offering a user-friendly interface, the app is expected to facilitate better communication and information sharing among stakeholders in the fisheries industry. This digital advancement is a significant step towards modernizing the sector and promoting sustainable practices.
Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0 Announced
In a bid to further stimulate innovation, the Union Minister announced the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0, which allocates ₹1 crore to support startups focused on technological advancements in fisheries and related sectors. The challenge will reward ten selected startups with financial incentives and incubation support, encouraging them to develop innovative solutions that enhance production, efficiency, and sustainability in aquaculture.
Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the critical role of startups in driving economic growth and job creation, particularly for the youth. He urged entrepreneurs to engage in value addition, explore advanced technology solutions, and contribute to the development of fisheries in regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. The challenge aims to foster healthy competition and inspire startups to leverage government schemes such as the Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) for their growth.
Acknowledging Pioneering Startups and Women Entrepreneurs
As part of the conclave, the Union Minister recognized eight innovative fisheries startups by distributing Entrepreneur Model approvals under the PM-MKSSY. These projects, with a total investment of ₹33.46 crores, focus on various aspects of aquaculture and sustainable fisheries. Awardees include ventures from Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, and other states, showcasing a diverse range of initiatives aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel encouraged women entrepreneurs to actively participate in the growing fisheries startup ecosystem. The event highlighted the importance of inclusivity and the potential for women to contribute significantly to the industry. Prof. Ramesh Chand from NITI Aayog stressed the need for startups to focus on value addition and technological innovation to enhance the export of processed fish and improve the overall supply chain.
Government Support for Startups in Fisheries
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting startups in the fisheries sector. He praised the participation of startups in initiatives like the Matsya Manthan series, which promotes awareness of emerging technologies. Dr. Likhi called on research institutes to commercialize innovations and assist startups, especially those in their early stages.
Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT, highlighted the support available for startups through licensing, incubation, and commercialization efforts. Key focus areas include developing fish processing equipment, solar-powered boats, and climate-smart aquaculture practices. The conclave served as a platform to inspire collaboration and innovation, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced fisheries sector in India.
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