The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, inaugurated the Northeastern States Meet on the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Guwahati. The meeting focused on advancing fisheries and aquaculture in the region.

The event brought together key stakeholders to review the progress of PMMSY, discuss challenges, and outline a roadmap for sustainable growth.

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Highlighting the government’s commitment to the sector, the Minister announced fisheries projects worth RS 50 crores aimed at enhancing infrastructure and fostering self-reliance across the Northeast.

During the event, beneficiaries from the region were honored with National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) registration certificates, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), and awards for the best Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and promising fisheries start-ups. A significant announcement was the establishment of an Organic Fisheries Cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim, designed to promote sustainable aquaculture practices and protect aquatic biodiversity.

A technical session led by Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General of ICAR, delved into the challenges facing the fisheries sector in the Northeast, including inadequate infrastructure, limited market connectivity, and the growing impacts of climate change. Known for its rich aquatic biodiversity, the Northeast holds immense potential for fisheries and aquaculture development.

The PMMSY, launched in 2020 with the highest-ever budget allocation of Rs 20,050 crores, aims to harness this potential by enhancing fish production, improving livelihoods, and doubling farmers’ incomes. The meeting underscored the importance of integrating traditional practices with modern technologies to boost productivity and exports.

Initiatives such as the Organic Fisheries Cluster and infrastructure improvements aim to position the Northeast as a hub for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. The Northeastern States Meet on PMMSY served as a vital platform for stakeholders to share innovative practices, address regional challenges, and foster collaboration.