Fisheries Secretaries Conference 2025 National Workshop on Harnessing

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), part of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D), held the “Fisheries Secretaries Conference 2025” and a national workshop on technology and innovation in aquaculture on May 23, 2025, in New Delhi. The event aimed to assess the progress of key initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Matasya Sampada Yojna (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). Under the leadership of Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of Fisheries, the conference gathered senior officials from various state fisheries departments and financial institutions to discuss advancements and challenges in the fisheries sector.

Key Innovations and Future Priorities

In his keynote address, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi emphasized the need for states to enhance collaborative efforts to elevate the fisheries sector through innovation and infrastructure development. He highlighted the potential of satellite technology to improve fisher safety and operational efficiency, focusing on resource mapping and biometric identification. Dr. Likhi also pointed out the importance of developing smart, integrated fishing harbors and modern fish markets that adhere to sustainability principles. A notable initiative discussed was a pilot project utilizing drone technology for transporting live fish, which aims to create a drone capable of carrying up to 70 kg of fish across challenging terrains. He called for the establishment of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for drone operations and a supportive subsidy structure to facilitate this innovation. Furthermore, he encouraged the promotion of advanced fisheries technologies, particularly in processing, marketing, and packaging, to foster a vibrant startup ecosystem.

Challenges in Inland Fisheries

Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (Inland) at DoF, addressed critical issues facing inland fisheries in various states and union territories. He urged state officials to mobilize applications for registration on the National Fisheries Development Portal (NFDP) to improve access to benefits from central sector schemes. Mehra also presented plans for a departmental summit organized by DoF later this year, aimed at enhancing the implementation of fisheries initiatives. The need for robust infrastructure and species diversification was echoed by Ms. Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary (Marine), who called on coastal states to lead the transition towards smart and sustainable fisheries. She advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies and the fast-tracking of smart harbor projects in line with national sustainability objectives.

Addressing Implementation Challenges

During the conference, participants acknowledged the progress made by states and union territories in advancing fisheries development under PMMSY and related initiatives. However, they also recognized ongoing challenges that require attention. Access to institutional credit for fish farmers remains a significant concern, particularly regarding collateral requirements under the Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) scheme. There is a pressing need to educate financial institutions about modern fisheries practices and technology-driven models to facilitate more inclusive lending. Additionally, states emphasized the importance of enhancing post-harvest infrastructure, including hygienic fish kiosks and modern markets, to improve the efficiency of the value chain. Strengthening market linkages, both physical and digital, is crucial for ensuring fair prices and stable incomes for fishers and farmers.

Collaborative Efforts for Effective Implementation

The conference served as a pivotal platform for aligning efforts among various stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the PM-MKSSY and other departmental initiatives. By fostering collaboration and enhancing capacity-building initiatives, the meeting aimed to bridge communication gaps between stakeholders. The government has invested significantly in transforming the fisheries sector through various schemes, including the PMMSY and the PM-MKSSY, which provides comprehensive aquaculture insurance to mitigate risks for small and marginalized farmers. The National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to benefits, thereby promoting a more organized and resilient fisheries sector. As the government continues to push for advancements in this field, the focus remains on inclusivity and sustainability to support the livelihoods of those involved in fisheries.

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