The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, will host a review meeting on the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for northeastern states on January 6, 2025, at Hotel Radisson in Guwahati, Assam.
During the event, the Union Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for major fisheries projects valued at ₹50 crore. These projects mark a significant step toward fostering a self-reliant fisheries sector in the northeastern region under PMMSY. Certificates for fisheries beneficiaries, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), and awards for the best FFPOs and fisheries startups will also be distributed on this occasion.
An organic fisheries cluster will be established in the Soreng district of Sikkim to promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. This initiative aims to deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits, positioning Sikkim as a leader in sustainable fisheries practices.
A technical session titled "Challenges and Solutions in Fisheries and Aquaculture in the Northeastern Region" will be conducted by Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General, ICAR. The session will address challenges such as resource management, inadequate infrastructure, market access issues, and the impact of climate change. Practical strategies and innovations tailored to the unique ecological and socio-economic context of the region will also be highlighted.
Boosting the Growth of Fisheries and Aquaculture in the Northeast:
This meeting aims to accelerate progress in the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the northeastern region by addressing local challenges and promoting sustainable practices. The program will focus on the dissemination of modern technologies, infrastructure development, and strengthening market linkages, fostering increased production, job creation, and economic growth.
Growth in Investment and Production in the Fisheries Sector:
India's fisheries and aquaculture sector provides livelihoods to approximately 30 million fishers and farmers. Since the establishment of the Department of Fisheries in 2019, investments in the sector have seen significant growth, with ₹38,572 crore invested since 2015. Under the Blue Revolution and PMMSY initiatives, ₹2,114.73 crore has been invested between 2014-15 and 2023-24.
This has resulted in a significant increase in fish production, from 3.78 lakh metric tons in 2013-14 to 6.41 lakh metric tons in 2023-24. Additionally, substantial progress has been made in hatchery development, adoption of scientific fish farming techniques, and infrastructure improvements.
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