The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), managed by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, has approved a substantial financial outlay for fisheries developmental projects. Over the past four financial years (FY 2020-21 to 2023-24) and the current financial year (2024-25), the scheme has granted approvals totalling Rs. 19,670.56 crore for various projects proposed by State Governments, Union Territories, and other implementing agencies, with a central share amounting to Rs. 8,666.28 crore.
The approved projects span a broad range of activities aimed at expanding the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. These include the development of 29,964 hectares of pond area for inland aquaculture, the establishment of 4,013 Biofloc units, and the installation of 11,995 Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS). Additionally, the plan includes the setup of 50,710 reservoir cages and 543.7 hectares of pens in reservoirs, along with 1,11,110 units of seaweed rafts and monoline units. There will be 1,489 bivalve cultivation units, 720 artificial reef units, and the creation of six Integrated Aquaparks, including a Seaweed Park. The development will also see the construction of 1,040 feed mill units, 54 fishing harbours and fish landing centers, 586 cold storages, 18 wholesale fish markets, 193 fish retail markets, 6,581 fish kiosks, 108 value-added enterprise units, and 26,188 post-harvest transportation units.
PMMSY is designed to promote inclusive development within the fisheries sector. It offers financial assistance up to 60% of the unit cost for SC/ST/Women beneficiaries, compared to 40% for general category beneficiaries. In line with its commitment to empowering women, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying has approved specific projects totalling Rs. 53.74 crore aimed at benefiting women in ornamental culture, seaweed cultivation, and bivalve farming. Notable activities include 499 bivalve cultivation projects, 20,655 seaweed culture rafts, and 631 ornamental units, which will directly benefit 9,392 women.
These approvals reflect the government’s robust commitment to advancing the fisheries sector through substantial investments and targeted support, particularly for marginalized and underrepresented groups.