On the fourth anniversary of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), several new initiatives and projects have been launched, aiming to bring revolutionary changes to the fisheries sector and strengthen India's blue economy. The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kerala has initiated a pilot project to explore the potential of drones for monitoring and managing inland fisheries.
The Union Minister announced the establishment of three dedicated fisheries production and processing clusters under the Fisheries Cluster Development Programme. These clusters will focus on pearl farming, ornamental fisheries, and seaweed farming. These clusters aim to promote collaboration, innovation, and collective efforts in specific regions, boosting both production and market access. This initiative is a step towards incorporating technology in the fisheries sector, enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of inland fisheries through drone capabilities.
The Union Minister also revealed the inclusion of 100 coastal villages in climate-resilient coastal fisher villages (CRCFV) across coastal states and Union Territories, with an allocation of ₹200 crore. This initiative focuses on improving infrastructure and promoting climate-smart livelihoods, ensuring food security and socio-economic stability for fishing communities amid changing environmental conditions.
The government announced priority projects with an outlay of ₹721.63 crore. These projects include the development of five integrated aqua parks in Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, and Nagaland to support comprehensive aquaculture growth. Additionally, the projects involve the development of 800 hectares of brackish water areas and integrated fish farming in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Punjab.
₹20,050 Crore: The Largest Investment in Fisheries to Date: The PMMSY scheme represents the largest-ever investment in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, with a budget of ₹20,050 crore. As part of the initiative, one lakh transponders, worth ₹364 crore, will be installed free of charge on fishing vessels. These transponders will facilitate two-way communication and provide information on potential fishing areas, helping conserve resources and alerting fishermen in case of emergencies or cyclones. This technology will enable fishermen to stay connected with their families, fisheries officials, and security agencies while out at sea.
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