Nationwide Campaign for National Fisheries Digital Platform

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has initiated a nationwide campaign to boost registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP). This campaign runs from February 14 to 22, 2025. It aims to expedite registration approvals and mobilise applications from stakeholders eligible for benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Yojana (PMMKSSY). The initiative collaborates with State and Union Territory Fisheries Departments, the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and Common Service Centers (CSCs).

Objectives of the Campaign

The campaign focuses on several key objectives. It aims to organise registration camps in fisheries hotspots. The goal is to enhance approval rates for registrations. Additionally, it encourages eligible stakeholders to take advantage of benefits under PMMKSSY. These benefits include credit facilitation, aquaculture insurance, and performance grants.

What is PMMKSSY?

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Yojana is a Central Sector Sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. It has an outlay of ₹6,000 crore and is set for implementation from 2023 to 2024. The scheme aims to formalise the fisheries sector and improve access to institutional finance. It also promotes aquaculture insurance and enhances value chain efficiencies.

Key Features of NFDP

The NFDP serves as a digital platform for registering fishers, fish farmers, vendors, processors, and microenterprises. Its main purpose is to integrate these stakeholders into formal financial systems and government programmes. The platform includes modules for registration, credit facilitation, strengthening fisheries cooperatives, aquaculture insurance, performance grants, and training.

Achievements and Impact

So far, over 17 lakh registrations have been completed on the NFDP portal. This digital initiative is designed to address challenges such as fragmentation and lack of credit access. By enhancing productivity and expanding both domestic and global markets, it aims to ensure long-term growth in the fisheries sector. The campaign seeks to create a more resilient and sustainable fisheries sector, ultimately improving the livelihoods of fishers and fish farmers.

Future Prospects

The ongoing campaign is expected to lead to increased participation in the fisheries sector. It will help in creating a robust ecosystem for fishers and farmers. The integration of technology in registration and financial processes is likely to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency in the sector.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of digital platforms in enhancing agricultural productivity in India.
2. Discuss the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana in the context of sustainable fisheries development.
3. Critically discuss the challenges faced by the fisheries sector in India and suggest potential solutions.
4. What are the benefits of aquaculture insurance for fish farmers? How does it contribute to their financial stability?

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of digital platforms in enhancing agricultural productivity in India.

1. Digital platforms facilitate access to information, resources, and markets for farmers.
2. They enable real-time data collection and analysis, improving decision-making.
3. Online registration systems streamline processes, reducing bureaucratic delays.
4. Platforms enhance connectivity between stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and support.
5. They support the implementation of government schemes, ensuring benefits reach intended beneficiaries.

2. Discuss the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana in the context of sustainable fisheries development.

1. PMMSY aims to formalize the fisheries sector, improving regulatory compliance and standards.
2. The scheme promotes sustainable practices, enhancing fish stock and ecosystem health.
3. It provides financial assistance for technology adoption, boosting productivity and efficiency.
4. PMMSY supports the development of infrastructure, improving supply chain and market access.
5. By addressing socio-economic issues, it aims to enhance livelihoods and reduce poverty among fishers.

3. Critically discuss the challenges faced by the fisheries sector in India and suggest potential solutions.

1. Challenges include fragmented supply chains, low access to credit, and inadequate infrastructure.
2. Overfishing and environmental degradation threaten sustainability and fish stocks.
3. Solutions include establishing cooperatives to improve bargaining power and resource sharing.
4. Investing in technology for better monitoring and management of fisheries resources is essential.
5. Strengthening policy frameworks and providing targeted financial support can enhance sector resilience.

4. What are the benefits of aquaculture insurance for fish farmers? How does it contribute to their financial stability?

1. Aquaculture insurance protects farmers against losses due to natural disasters and diseases.
2. It provides financial compensation, reducing the economic impact of unforeseen events.
3. Insurance encourages farmers to invest in better practices and technologies, boosting productivity.
4. It enhances creditworthiness, enabling farmers to access loans and financial services.
5. Overall, insurance contributes to stable income, promoting long-term sustainability in aquaculture.