What to Expect from the Upcoming Fisheries Initiative in Coastal States

Inauguration of Key Fisheries Projects

On Monday, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, will kick off significant projects for six coastal states, including Odisha, along with a Union territory. This initiative is backed by an investment of Rs 255.30 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

During a meeting of coastal states in Mumbai, the minister will unveil several initiatives designed to enhance marine fisheries and encourage sustainable practices. These initiatives include the Marine Fisheries Census Operations, the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) project, and the introduction of a standard operating procedure (SOP) for Vessel Communication and Support Systems.

The event will also feature the presence of Ministers of State for Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, SP Singh Baghel and George Kurian. An official announcement indicates that certificates will be awarded to exemplary cooperatives, fishery farmers’ producer organizations, fisheries startups, and climate-resilient coastal fishing communities.

Beneficiaries will also receive Aqua Insurance certificates and Kisan Credit Cards as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY). This marks the first introduction of Aqua Insurance by the Union government, providing essential financial security to aquafarmers.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to deliver targeted insurance coverage, enhance digital access, and provide focused support to marginalized groups within the fisheries sector. Fisheries Ministers from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Puducherry, along with state government officials, will be in attendance.

This meeting is crucial for tackling region-specific issues, promoting modern and eco-friendly practices suited to coastal ecosystems, and improving livelihood opportunities, productivity, and long-term economic growth in the fisheries sector.