Outreach Initiative Links Fishers and Fish Farmers with Policymakers in 34 States and UTs
More than 15,000 fishers and fish farmers from 34 states and union territories participated in a nationwide series of virtual interactions organized by the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, from April to September 2025. Led by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of DoF, this initiative provided a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and aspirations. The discussions, which included a wide range of participants such as fisheries associations, cooperatives, and startups, aimed to identify current challenges and gather feedback to inform future policy interventions and support measures for the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Engaging Stakeholders in Meaningful Dialogue
The virtual interactions spanned six months, from April 2 to September 30, 2025, and covered various regions, including coastal, inland, hilly, island, and North-Eastern areas. This broad representation ensured that nearly every district in the country was included in the discussions. Participants expressed appreciation for government support under various schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). These interactions not only highlighted the challenges faced by fishers and fish farmers but also served as a valuable feedback mechanism for shaping future policies and infrastructure planning.
During these sessions, stakeholders emphasized the need for improvements in several areas, including the availability of quality fish seed, affordable feed, and enhanced transport facilities. They also called for the establishment of local feed mills and the integration of solar energy into aquaculture practices. The discussions underscored the importance of adopting innovative technology, such as drones for live fish transport and satellite applications for safety and security, which could significantly enhance the fishing experience and market reach.
Addressing Key Challenges in the Fisheries Sector
Participants raised critical points regarding the marketing of fish products, advocating for the development of dedicated fish markets and modern processing plants to improve value chains and price realization. They suggested that the PMMSY should further support alternative livelihoods, including seaweed cultivation and ornamental fisheries. Regular capacity-building programs were also highlighted as essential for enhancing technical know-how and farm management practices.
Moreover, stakeholders stressed the importance of aquatic health management systems and disease control measures, which could be supported by establishing water quality testing laboratories. The feedback gathered during these sessions will help guide future interventions and ensure that the growth of the fisheries sector remains inclusive and sustainable.
Government Initiatives and Future Directions
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi noted that these consultations have created a vital link between fishers, fish farmers, and policymakers. He emphasized that the insights gained will inform the Department of Fisheries’ five-year roadmap and align with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The mobile-based video conferencing format allowed participants to connect directly with senior officials, making it easier for them to share their experiences and suggestions from the comfort of their homes.
The fisheries sector is recognized as a “Sunrise Sector,” crucial for the livelihoods of nearly 30 million people in India, particularly marginalized fishers and fish farmers. India ranks as the second-largest fish producer globally, contributing 8% to the world’s fish output. Since 2015, the Indian government has approved investments totaling ₹38,572 crores across various schemes, leading to a significant increase in fish production and seafood exports.
The Importance of a Sustainable Fisheries Sector
The fisheries sector has experienced an annual growth rate of 8.74%, with total fish production reaching 195 lakh tonnes. The government has also initiated the formation of 34 fisheries production and processing clusters across the country, focusing on strengthening species-specific value chains and leveraging the latest technologies. This cluster-based approach aims to empower women through the formation of Fisheries Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and cooperatives, promote domestic fish consumption, enhance exports, and provide livelihood support to marginalized communities.
The ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders and address their concerns reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive fisheries sector, ensuring that the needs of fishers and fish farmers are met while promoting economic growth and development.
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
