Mumbai recently hosted the ‘Coastal States Meet 2025’, a pivotal event aimed at revolutionising India’s fisheries sector.
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, inaugurated and laid the foundation for projects worth ₹255.30 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). These initiatives are set to bolster the marine fisheries infrastructure across seven coastal states and Union Territories, reflecting the government’s commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of aquafarmers. The event marked the launch of several key projects, including the Marine Fisheries Census Operations, the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) project, and the Standard Operating Procedure for the Vessel Communication and Support System. The Marine Fisheries Census, conducted by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), aims to collect real-time data on marine fisherfolk, providing a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s infrastructure and ecosystem. This census will cover approximately 1.2 million households across the coastal region, marking the fifth such exercise since 2005 .
A significant highlight of the meet was the introduction of Aqua Insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY). This initiative offers dedicated financial protection to aquafarmers, ensuring targeted insurance coverage, digital accessibility, and focused support for marginalized communities in the fisheries sector. Beneficiaries also received Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), further enhancing their financial security and access to resources . The meet featured technical sessions focusing on strengthening marine fisheries governance, promoting sustainable mariculture, and improving export capabilities. Discussions centred on integrating Marine Fisheries Regulation Acts (MFRAs), monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS), and sea safety measures. Additionally, the event showcased an exhibition highlighting innovative technologies, products, and initiatives in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, fostering knowledge exchange and best practices .
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision to increase fish production from 17.5 million tonnes to 22 million tonnes, focusing on technology, investment, and innovation to achieve this target . The Coastal States Meet 2025 serves as a vital platform for addressing region-specific challenges, promoting modern, eco-friendly approaches tailored to coastal ecosystems, and enhancing livelihood opportunities, productivity, and long-term economic development in the fisheries sector. Through these concerted efforts, the government aims to transform the fisheries sector into a sustainable and economically empowering industry, ensuring the welfare of the millions dependent on it.
Also Read: https://urbanacres.in/delhi-government-partners-with-adb-to-enhance-water-supply/
