Guwahati: Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 significant fisheries projects under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) today. These projects, collectively worth ₹50 crore, cover all Northeastern states except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. The ceremony was held during the Northeastern States Meet to review the implementation of PMMSY, graced by Union Ministers of State, Prof. S.P. Baghel and Shri George Kurian, and other dignitaries.
First Organic Fisheries Cluster in India
A key highlight was the launch of India’s first Organic Fisheries Cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim. This initiative aims to develop organic fisheries and aquaculture, aligning with Sikkim’s vision of eco-friendly and sustainable practices. The organic fisheries cluster focuses on chemical-free fish farming, reducing environmental pollution and enhancing the ecological health of aquatic ecosystems.
“Introducing organic fisheries and aquaculture complements Sikkim’s reputation for sustainable practices,” Shri Singh noted, emphasizing the state’s potential to export organic fish products and establish itself as a pioneer in sustainable aquaculture.
The project is supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), which will provide financial and technical assistance while engaging fisheries cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
Cluster-Based Development for Fisheries Growth
Under PMMSY, the government has adopted a cluster-based approach to enhance competitiveness, reduce costs, and promote sustainable practices in fisheries. The approach unites stakeholders across the value chain, from production to exports, creating new business opportunities and livelihoods.
In addition to Sikkim’s organic cluster, the Department of Fisheries has previously established fisheries clusters focusing on pearls (Jharkhand), ornamental fish (Tamil Nadu), seaweed (Lakshadweep), and tuna (Andaman & Nicobar).
Boosting Fisheries in the Northeast
The Northeast Region (NER), a biodiversity hotspot with abundant freshwater resources, has become a focal point for fisheries development. The region’s inland fish production has increased significantly, from 4.03 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 6.41 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of 5%.
To sustain this momentum, the government approved investments of ₹2,114 crore for fisheries in the region through PMMSY, the Blue Revolution Scheme, and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).
The 50 inaugurated projects aim to generate 4,530 direct and indirect employment opportunities in the Northeast. Key projects include:
| Project | Units |
|---|---|
| Hatcheries | 12 |
| Ice Plants/Cold Storage | 2 |
| Integrated Reservoir Development | 1 |
| Recreational Fisheries Promotion | 1 |
| Ornamental Fish Rearing Units | 4 |
| Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems | 12 |
| Fish Kiosks and Aquariums | 10 |
| Biofloc Systems | 2 |
| Feed Plants | 2 |
| Integrated Aquaparks | 1 |
India’s Fisheries Growth Story
India, the world’s second-largest fish producer, contributes 8% to global output and leads in aquaculture and shrimp production. The government has invested over ₹38,572 crore in fisheries since 2015 through initiatives like the Blue Revolution Scheme and PMMSY, aiming to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.
The projects inaugurated today reaffirm the government’s commitment to transforming fisheries in the Northeast into a dynamic hub for economic growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
