Guwahati, Jan 5: In a significant boost to the fisheries sector in the Northeastern Region (NER), the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAH&D) is set to launch key initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). These projects, valued at approximately Rs 50 crore, will be inaugurated during the “Northeastern Region States Meet to Review the Implementation of PMMSY” on January 6 in Guwahati.

The event will be chaired by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, reflecting the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering a self-sustained and thriving fisheries sector in NER. The projects aim to strengthen the region’s fisheries infrastructure, enhance productivity, and empower local fisher communities to achieve economic self-reliance. The Department of Fisheries, Government of India will notify the Organic Fisheries Cluster in the Soreng District of Sikkim for the development of organic fisheries and aquaculture. The fisheries cluster in Sikkim would offer a range of economic, environmental and social benefits and can position itself as a leader in sustainable aquaculture.

As part of this initiative, the meet will also honour beneficiaries from the fisheries sector in the Northeastern Region. Recognitions will include.

NFDP Registration Certificates: Supporting the integration of fish farmers into the National Fisheries Development Program.

Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Cards: Facilitating access to affordable credit for fish farmers to expand their operations and adopt advanced practices.

Awards for Best FFPOs and Fisheries Start-ups: Celebrating the achievements of Fisheries Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and innovative start-ups driving change in the sector.

These efforts signify a holistic approach to uplifting fish farmers and entrepreneurs, enabling them to harness the region’s abundant aquatic resources sustainably.

The funds will be directed towards enhancing infrastructure for fish production, storage, and distribution,promoting scientific fish farming techniques to boost productivity and addressing challenges like resource management and market access.

These projects will directly impact fish farmers and allied stakeholders, creating employment opportunities, improving livelihoods, and fostering economic growth in the region.

Renowned as a global hotspot for aquatic biodiversity, NER holds immense potential for fisheries and aquaculture. With over 422 fish species and vast water resources, the region is poised to become a leader in sustainable fish production. Investments under PMMSY and earlier initiatives like the Blue Revolution have already expanded NER’s fish production from 3.78 lakh MT in 2013-14 to 6.41 lakh MT in 2023-24, demonstrating remarkable progress.

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