Odisha Boosts Fisheries Sector with ₹1,301 Crore Investment
The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) has made significant strides in advancing the fisheries sector in India through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Since its launch in 2020-21, this initiative has seen the Government of India approve approximately ₹1,301.30 crore in proposals from Odisha, including a central funding share of ₹481.17 crore aimed at developing various fisheries infrastructures. These efforts include the establishment of hatcheries, construction of ponds, advanced recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS), Biofloc units, and cage culture in reservoirs.
As a result of these extensive investments, Odisha has reported a remarkable increase in its total fish production, soaring from 8.18 lakh tonnes in 2019-20 to an impressive 11.92 lakh tonnes by 2024-25. This growth emphasizes the positive impact the PMMSY program is having on the state’s fisheries sector and overall economy.
Empowering Women in Fisheries
One of the standout features of the PMMSY is its commitment to empowering women involved in fisheries. The scheme provides enhanced financial assistance of 60% specifically for women beneficiaries engaged in individual or group activities. As a result, 14,246 women in Odisha have benefitted from this support, strengthening their role in the fisheries sector and promoting gender equity in the industry.
Investment in Infrastructure
In addition to promoting production, the government has also taken steps to enhance fisheries infrastructure, focusing on cold chains and processing capabilities within Odisha. A range of projects has been approved to support the sector, with significant investments aimed at improving storage and packaging facilities.
According to recent disclosures made by Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh in the Lok Sabha, the approved activities include:
- 32 cold storage and ice plants with capacities ranging from 10 to 50 tons per day.
- 10 refrigerated vehicles to enhance transport logistics.
- 270 three-wheelers equipped with ice boxes for convenient fish vending, along with 700 motorcycles designed for the same purpose.
- 21 fish feed plants and multiple retail markets to ensure a steady supply chain.
- Establishment of 42 fish kiosks and five live fish vending centers to boost local sales.
The total cost of these cold chain, processing, and packaging initiatives in Odisha under PMMSY amounts to ₹11,735 lakhs, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing the viability and sustainability of the fisheries sector.
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