India Blue Revolution Repackages Fisheries Industry

The fisheries industry of India has experienced significant revival with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) which was launched in 2020. The scheme has increased ecological sustainability, economic growth and social inclusiveness after five years. Production has also gone great, infrastructure has grown and livelihoods have been reinforced. The extension of it to 2025-26 by the government is a sign of its undeterred determination.

Fish Production

Fish production has increased over 195 lakh tonnes since 2013-14 and is projected to reach this figure in 2024-25. The inland fisheries alone have grown by 142 making India the second biggest producer in the world. This has been attributed to better agricultural techniques, infrastructure development and policies.

Investment and Infrastructure.

More than 21,274 crore worth projects have been sanctioned, of which 9,189 crore is provided by the Centre and 5,587 crore has already been disbursed. The infrastructure projects, such as harbours, cold storage and markets, were allocated 17,210 crore, reducing poor post-harvest losses and enhancing supply chains.

Digital Push and Empowerment.

More than 26 lakh fishers and organisations are currently registered on the National Fisheries Digital Platform which provides more access and transparency. Over 4.76 lakh Kisan Credit Cards have been given and 3,214 crore has been disbursed to small fishers and increase financial inclusion.

Success Stories

Informal efforts lay emphasis on the scheme effect. Kapil Talwar established a biofloc fish farm with a subsidy of 40 percent and technical support in Uttarakhand and provided employment to the rural population, primarily women. Mandya district had 306 lakes that supported more than 45,000 fishers with 5 crore. In Mysuru, 4 million fingerlings were discharged and 742 beneficiaries were given subsidies.

New Initiatives

In 2024 PM Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) was launched with 6,000 crore to formalise the industry, enhance value chains and increase insurance. It pays attention to the training, cooperatives and the modern markets in the long term growth.

Challenges Ahead

Major challenges have been in embracing technology, creating resilience to climate change, and increasing market access. Further investment in research, innovation, community involvement and environmental protection will be important to sustainable development of fisheries.