PMMS Yojana: ₹20,050 crore investment to boost Fisheries and support small-scale fishermen

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), ₹20,050 crore has been invested to develop the fisheries sector and benefit small-scale fishermen. This scheme aims to safeguard the social, physical, and economic interests of traditional and small fishermen, fish farmers, and fisheries workers. It also facilitates the smooth operation of their traditional fishing practices and allied activities.

Modern Technology and Livelihood Support for Fishermen:

PMMSY provides fishermen with boats, fishing nets, communication devices, tracking equipment, marine safety kits, insurance coverage, and modern fishing vessels equipped for deep-sea operations. Additionally, alternative livelihood activities such as seaweed farming, bivalve culture, ornamental fisheries, and open-sea cage farming are encouraged.

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The scheme also supports the adoption of new fisheries technologies such as the Recirculatory Aquaculture System and Biofloc System, along with assistance for training, skill development, and the creation of cold-chain and marketing infrastructure. Moreover, economically weaker fishermen families receive livelihood and nutritional assistance during the fishing ban period.

Approval of ₹115.78 Crore for Fisheries Projects:

To promote climate-resilient fisheries, projects worth ₹115.78 crore have been approved for activities such as seaweed farming, bivalve culture, open-sea cage farming, artificial reef construction, and integrated fish farming. Furthermore, ₹769.64 crore has been allocated for the procurement of 480 deep-sea fishing boats and the upgradation of 1,338 existing boats for traditional fishermen.

₹364 Crore Project for Fishermen’s Safety:

A project worth ₹364 crore has been initiated to enhance the safety of fishermen at sea. This includes the provision of communication and tracking devices, marine safety kits, and the installation of transponders on 1 lakh fishing vessels. The project also enables emergency messaging and warning systems in case of natural disasters or border crossings.

Special Focus on Coastal Village Development: A budget of ₹200 crore has been allocated for the development of 100 villages as climate-resilient coastal fisher villages, aimed at creating livelihood opportunities and improving infrastructure. Additionally, ₹544.85 crore has been sanctioned for the formation of Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).

Farmer Credit Card Facility: Since 2018-19, fishermen and fish farmers have been provided with Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to meet their working capital needs. So far, 2.54 lakh KCCs have been issued, with loans amounting to ₹2,121.29 crore.

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