India Boosts Fisheries Sector with Major Investments
The Government of India is making significant strides in enhancing the fisheries sector through its flagship initiative, the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Over the past four years, the Department of Fisheries has approved investments totaling ₹1,358.10 crore for various projects in Kerala. These efforts aim to increase fish production, improve value chains, and ensure economic security for fishers and farmers across the country.
Key Initiatives Under PMMSY
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, which runs from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25, focuses on sustainable development in both marine and inland fisheries. The initiative aims to harness the full potential of fisheries, enhance productivity, and create job opportunities. Specific goals include doubling the incomes of fishers and fish farmers while ensuring their social and economic security. In Kerala, the Department of Fisheries has approved a range of developmental proposals. These include the construction of freshwater finfish hatcheries, establishment of new rearing and grow-out ponds, and the development of fish feed mills. Additionally, the initiative supports ornamental fish breeding units, cage culture in reservoirs, and high-tech aquaculture systems. The government aims to bolster the fisheries value chain through these diverse activities.
Infrastructure and Marketing Enhancements
In addition to production-focused initiatives, the PMMSY also emphasizes the importance of infrastructure and marketing. The approved projects include the establishment of cold storage facilities, fish transportation vehicles, and live fish vending centers. These enhancements are designed to improve the supply chain and ensure that fish products reach consumers efficiently. Moreover, the government is investing in value-added enterprises and fish retail markets to cater to changing consumer preferences. The introduction of ready-to-eat fish products, such as fish curry and fish cutlets, reflects the evolving food habits of the population. These initiatives are expected to create a more robust market for fish products in Kerala.
Impact on Inland Fish Production
Thanks to the combined efforts of the central and state governments, Kerala has witnessed a notable increase in inland fish production. The production has risen from 2.05 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to an impressive 2.51 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. This growth highlights the effectiveness of the initiatives implemented under the PMMSY and the state’s own fisheries development programs. The Government of Kerala has also introduced the Janakeeya Matsya Krishi scheme, which focuses on diversifying aquaculture practices and optimizing reservoir fisheries. These efforts, alongside the establishment of hi-tech fish marts, aim to streamline the supply chain from fishers to consumers, ensuring that fresh fish is readily available.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
