World Fisheries Day is observed every year on 21 November. It aims to draw attention of public to ensure healthy oceans ecosystems and to guarantee sustainable stocks of fisheries in the world. It also serves to shine a spotlight on the challenges fishers face while out at sea. While addressing the event in Bhubaneswar, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and the Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala conveyed that fisheries sector has tremendous potential of growth and the Government of India is providing all necessary support to achieve the one lakh crore export target from the sector by 2024-25.
He also urged to enhance awareness about Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and extended support to fishermen and women.
Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying in his message affirmed, “The Government is implementing Matsya Sampada Yojana and has infused Rs 20,000 crore in the sector through the scheme. Seaweed farming is another part where the government is putting more emphasis on. We are also focusing on empowering fisherwomen and promoting entrepreneurship in the sector,”
Several awards were given during the event. Balasore, Odisha was awarded as the Best Marine District in the country. Andhra Pradesh was awarded the Best Marine State while Best Inland State Award was given to Telangana. Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh received the Best Inland District award; and Best Hilly and Northeastern State award and Best Hilly and Northeastern District award were taken away by Tripura and Bongaigaon, Assam respectively.