Enhancing Fisheries Development in India
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, has initiated several programs aimed at advancing the fisheries sector in India. These initiatives focus on enhancing pisciculture and improving the livelihoods of fishers and fish farmers. With a commitment to sustainable development, the government has rolled out various schemes that provide financial assistance, infrastructure development, and skill training. This article explores the key programs and their impact on the fisheries sector.
Blue Revolution: A Comprehensive Approach
The Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) on Blue Revolution was launched to promote integrated development and management of fisheries from 2015 to 2020. This ambitious program aimed to boost fish production and productivity across the country. Under this scheme, the government provided financial assistance for various pisciculture activities. These included the construction of grow-out ponds for freshwater, brackish, and saline water aquaculture. The program also supported the establishment of fish brood banks and hatcheries, which are crucial for maintaining fish populations.
Additionally, the Blue Revolution encouraged the installation of cages in reservoirs and the development of waterlogged areas. It introduced innovative practices like the Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS), which optimizes water use in fish farming. Training and skill development for fish farmers were also integral components of this initiative. By equipping farmers with the necessary skills, the program aimed to enhance productivity and sustainability in the fisheries sector.
Financial Support through FIDF
To further strengthen the fisheries infrastructure, the government established the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) in 2018. With a total fund size of ₹7,522.48 crore, this initiative provides concessional finance for creating and enhancing fisheries infrastructure. The FIDF focuses on developing hatcheries, aquaculture facilities, and brood banks. It also supports the establishment of cage culture in reservoirs, which is vital for increasing fish production.
The FIDF aims to address the financial challenges faced by fish farmers and entrepreneurs in the fisheries sector. By providing access to affordable credit, the fund encourages investments in modern aquaculture practices. This financial support is crucial for the growth of the fisheries sector, enabling stakeholders to adopt advanced technologies and improve their operations.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Launched in 2020, the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is one of the most significant initiatives in the fisheries sector. With an estimated investment of ₹20,050 crore, this scheme aims to enhance fish production and productivity over a five-year period. PMMSY focuses on expanding and diversifying aquaculture practices in both inland and marine sectors.
The scheme promotes the establishment of ponds for various types of aquaculture, including freshwater, saline, and brackish water. It also supports the development of facilities such as brood banks, hatcheries, and quality seed units. Moreover, PMMSY emphasizes technological infusion and high-density aquaculture activities like RAS and Bio-floc systems. Training programs for skill development and capacity building among fishers and fish farmers are also essential components of this initiative.
Supporting Microenterprises in Fisheries
In addition to existing programs, the Department of Fisheries has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY). This sub-scheme aims to incentivize fisheries and aquaculture microenterprises through performance grants. Implemented from 2023 to 2027, PM-MKSSY focuses on improving the value chain efficiencies in the fisheries sector.
The government recognizes the importance of supporting small-scale fishers and farmers. By providing financial incentives, the scheme encourages the growth of microenterprises, which play a vital role in the local economy. This initiative aims to create a more resilient and sustainable fisheries sector, benefiting both the environment and the livelihoods of those involved.
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