The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) recently commemorated its second year of operation. The initiative, instituted by the Indian government under the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package, is earmarked with an investment of Rs. 20,050 crores- the highest ever allocation within the fishery sector. It aims to generate up to 68 lakh jobs by the close of the fiscal year 2024-25.
About PMMSY
The PMMSY was structured to stimulate rural development by capitalizing on available rural resources while simultaneously accelerating economic growth within these regions. Its guiding principle, ‘Reform, Perform, and Transform,’ underlies its ambitious objectives within the fishery industry sector.
Besides providing fishermen with insurance coverage and financial aid, PMMSY also furnishes them with Kisan Credit Cards, facilitating easier access to credit facilities.
Inculcation of Reforms in the PMMSY Scheme
PMMSY has incorporated a host of reforms and initiatives aimed at modernizing Indian fisheries and developing core infrastructure. This includes redesigning traditional fishing practices, improving post-harvest loss management, and upgrading cold chain facilities.
These reforms extend to the installation of new fishing harbours and landing centres, modernisation and mechanization of traditional fishermen crafts-trawlers-deep sea going vessels, introduction of clean and hygienic fish markets, and provision of two-wheelers fitted with ice boxes.
Achievements so far
Since its inception, the PMMSY has registered significant growth within the fishery sector. From 2019-20 to 2021-22, the industry recorded a remarkable growth of 14.3%, with fish production reaching an all-time high of 161.87 lakh tons. Notably, this period also saw a historic high in terms of exports, with 13.64 lakh tonnes of fishery products valued at Rs 57,587 crore being exported to 123 countries including China, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, Tunisia, the United States, Hong Kong, and Kuwait.
Under the scheme, insurance coverage was extended to 31.47 lakh farmers from 22 states and 7 Union Territories.
Implementation of PMMSY
PMMSY operates as an umbrella scheme divided into two primary components: the Central Sector Scheme and the Centrally Sponsored Scheme. The former is fully funded by the Central government, while the latter is implemented by the States or Union Territories, with costs shared between the Centre and the State/UT.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, PMMSY has plans to promote aquaculture, particularly in the saline and alkaline regions of northern India. There is also planned focus on aquatic health management, addressing the issues of diseases, antibiotics, and residue supported by an integrated laboratory network.
Way Forward
Central to PMMSY are the fishery sector and fish farmers. The full potential of reservoirs and natural resources can be harnessed through technological infusion, public stocking, and rejuvenation of water bodies through river and sea ranching programs. It will also be crucial to adopt scientific practices in fish farming to elevate India’s global standing in terms of productivity.
