Empowering Fisheries: New Training Initiative Launched Under PMMSY
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is making strides in the fisheries sector by prioritizing skill development and capacity building. This initiative serves as a vital tool for modernizing the fisheries value chain, boosting productivity, and establishing robust marketing frameworks through enhanced human resource and institutional capacity.
On July 10, 2025, marked as National Fish Farmers Day, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Panchayati Raj, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), officially released the “Training & Capacity Building Programme Calendar of Fisheries Institutes of ICAR & its Regional Centres.” This calendar outlines a structured approach to training and capacity-building programs slated for 2025–2027, which includes various training sessions, exposure visits, and knowledge-sharing initiatives aimed at supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
Comprehensive Programs for Skill Enhancement
Designed to empower both fishers and fish farmers, these programs focus on refining technical skills and promoting sustainable practices within the industry. With the growing demand for quality fish products and advancements in aquaculture technologies, the training curriculum covers key areas such as hatchery management, advanced grow-out techniques, integrated fish culture, fish health management, feed formulation, as well as seaweed cultivation and value-added fish processing.
One of the standout elements of the training is the emphasis on modern techniques, such as the Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS), Biofloc technology, cage culture methods, and ornamental fish breeding. Specific training sessions aimed at enhancing livelihoods—such as those focused on ornamental fisheries and women-targeted fish products—are also included. Moreover, the initiative plans to conduct exposure visits across the country, allowing farmers to observe advanced culture technologies firsthand. Domestic fish and shrimp consumption is further supported through various events like fish festivals and fairs.
Financial Commitment to Stakeholders
The Department of Fisheries has allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 2.93 crore through the National Fisheries Development Board, Hyderabad, which acts as the nodal agency for implementing these training programs under PMMSY and PM-MKSSY. The department covers all expenses related to the training of fishermen and fish farmers.
Training sessions are facilitated by an array of organizations, including State and Union Territory Fisheries Departments, ICAR Fisheries Research Institutes, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), the Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI), the Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical and Engineering Training (CIFNET), and NIFPHAT. Over the past six months, an impressive total of 499 training programs have been conducted, benefiting approximately 22,921 participants. By integrating modern practices and technologies, PMMSY continues to empower fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and allied communities, thus ensuring food security, nutritional well-being, and improved livelihoods.
A Vision for the Future
This training initiative led by the Department of Fisheries is paving the way for long-term growth and resilience in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. By unlocking the full potential of this vital industry, the government aims to generate employment opportunities, significantly contributing to the socio-economic advancement of the nation.
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