New Delhi: Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala spearheaded the twelfth phase of Sagar Parikrama in West Bengal, commencing in Digha, Purba Medinipur district. The program focused on engaging with beneficiaries, and an introductory address by Joint Secretary, DoF, Smt Neetu Kumari Prasad, shed light on the critical role of fishermen, fisherwomen, and fish farmers. The discussion emphasized the advantages of Government of India schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC).
Beneficiaries at the event expressed concerns, including issues related to diesel subsidies. Shri Rupala emphasized that the Sagar Parikrama’s objective was to directly interact with beneficiaries, highlighting that projects worth approximately Rs 150 Crores had been sanctioned under the PMMSY scheme. These projects included hatcheries, ornamental fish units, insulated vehicles, fish feed meals, two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, benefiting around 750 fishermen. Moreover, around 16,000 KCCs have been distributed to beneficiaries. Shri Rupala assured that necessary measures would be taken to address the challenges faced by the beneficiaries.
Continuing the journey, Sagar Parikrama Yatra Phase-XII reached Shankarpur Fishing Harbour, where Union Minister Shri Rupala and other authorities engaged with beneficiaries. He announced that a project of approximately Rs 45 Crores had been sanctioned for Shankarpur Fishing Harbour. Shri Rupala expressed confidence that the activities under the PMMSY scheme would significantly impact the fisheries sector in India. Beneficiaries shared success stories, expressing satisfaction with the assets received under the PMMSY scheme, such as two-wheelers with iceboxes.
The interaction extended to various coastal regions like Petuaghat Fishing Harbour, Bakkhali, and Ganga Sagar, where the Union Minister and public authorities engaged with fisherwomen, fishermen, and fish farmers. Shri Parshottam Rupala conveyed the fisheries development opportunities to local representatives, expressing belief in the substantial impact of the PMMSY program on the Indian Fisheries Sector. He thanked the fisherfolk for sharing experiences and contributing suggestions for enhancing fisheries sector development.
“Sagar Parikrama” represents a transformative journey along the coastal belt, demonstrating solidarity with fisher folks, fish farmers, and related stakeholders. Phase-XII marks the continuation of the successful eleven-phase journey of the Sagar Parikrama Yatra.