National

The Odisha state Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved the Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana (MMKY), a transformative scheme aimed at boosting the fisheries sector. With a massive budget of ₹2,239 crore, the initiative will be implemented over five years, from 2024-25 to 2028-29.

Objective and Coverage:

The MMKY aims to provide comprehensive support to the state’s fishing community, enhancing livelihoods, promoting sustainable fisheries, and ensuring economic growth. The scheme will benefit an estimated 14 lakh individuals, including:

• 6.67 lakh fishers, who are directly involved in fishing activities.
• 7.32 lakh members of women’s self-help groups (WSHGs), empowering women to play a larger role in the fisheries value chain.

Scope of the Scheme:

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja outlined that the scheme comprises 17 sub-schemes, each tailored to address specific challenges and opportunities within the fisheries sector. These sub-schemes are expected to cover areas such as:

• Infrastructure development, including the construction and modernization of fishing harbors, landing centers, and cold storage facilities.
• Financial support and subsidies for the acquisition of modern fishing equipment and boats.
• Skill development programs to train fishers and WSHG members in advanced aquaculture techniques and value addition.
• Welfare measures like insurance coverage, health benefits, and pension schemes for fishers and their families.
• Conservation efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine and inland ecosystems.

Expected Impact:
The MMKY is projected to drive economic growth by increasing fish production, improving the income of fishing communities, and creating new employment opportunities. It will also empower women through self-help groups, encouraging their active participation in the fisheries sector.

By addressing critical gaps in infrastructure, technology, and welfare, the initiative aligns with Odisha’s broader vision of achieving sustainability and self-reliance in fisheries.

Government’s Commitment:

This flagship scheme reflects the government’s commitment to uplift marginalized communities and ensure that the fisheries sector remains a vital contributor to the state’s economy. It also reinforces the state’s focus on achieving inclusive growth by supporting both traditional fishers and emerging entrepreneurs in the sector.

The Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana is expected to become a model initiative, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate in promoting sustainable and equitable development in the fisheries industry.

In Odisha’s Kendrapara district, the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department has announced a compensation plan for approximately 16,500 fishermen impacted by the annual fishing ban during the Olive ridley sea turtles’ nesting season. The ban is enforced at the Gahirmatha marine sanctuary, Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam, and Devi beach in Puri, where the endangered turtles come ashore for mass nesting.

Rabi Narayan Patnaik, Deputy Director (Marine) of the Fisheries Department, noted that compensation for affected fishermen in Kendrapara began in 2016, starting at ₹5,000 annually for 2,000 fishermen. Last year, this support was increased to ₹15,000, benefiting around 15,000 individuals. This year, ₹15,000 will once again be provided as compensation to each eligible fisherman impacted by the ban.

Despite these efforts, local fishing communities are calling for more comprehensive support. Prasanna Behera, President of the Odisha Traditional Fish Workers’ Union, highlighted the wider impact, estimating that around 50,000 fishermen in Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts are affected by the restrictions, which began on November 1 and will extend until May 31.

Behera explained that the union has repeatedly requested alternative income sources and fair compensation for losses incurred during the seven-month prohibition. He cited a Central Empowerment Committee directive, which advises the establishment of alternative livelihoods before such bans are implemented. “The compensation of ₹15,000 for only 16,500 fishermen is inadequate, especially given the long duration of the ban,” he remarked, underscoring the need for additional measures to support the entire fishing community during this period.

A delegation led by Telangana Fishermen Cooperative Federation Ltd. Chairman Mettu Sai Kumar has completed a three-day study tour of Karnataka, aimed at enhancing the state’s fisheries sector. The visit, which took place from November 11 to 13, included stops in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and other key regions renowned for their expertise in fish farming and marketing practices.

During the tour, the delegation observed advanced techniques and sustainable practices employed in Karnataka’s fisheries sector. Insights gathered are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Telangana’s upcoming fisheries policy.

Chairman Mettu Sai Kumar confirmed that the findings from the visit would contribute to a robust framework designed to improve the livelihoods of fishermen and promote sustainable fish farming across Telangana. He stated that the policy will prioritize transparency, efficiency, and modern practices to position Telangana as a leader in fisheries management.

This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening the fisheries sector through learning from successful models in other states, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability for the industry.

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) hosted an International Conclave on Next-Gen Technologies in the Seafood Sector on 30th August 2024 in Kochi. This event served as a platform to showcase advanced technologies capable of seamless integration into the seafood value chain with minimal modifications. The conclave witnessed active participation from stakeholders across the seafood sector, researchers, academicians, bankers, and fisheries administrators.

Continuing its efforts to promote technology adoption, MPEDA is organizing a series of webinars featuring industry technocrats. These webinars aim to familiarize stakeholders, students, and researchers with emerging technologies and encourage their application at the field level.

The next webinar, titled “Realtime Geo-Spatial Analysis for Aquaculture”, will be conducted by Mr. Pranit Meheta, Co-founder and Vice President of GalaxEye Space. The session is scheduled for 3:00 PM on 18th November 2024.

Participants are encouraged to attend this insightful webinar through the Zoom platform.

Webinar Details:

• Date: 18th November 2024
• Time: 3:00 PM (Mumbai, Kolkata, New Delhi)
• Zoom Link: Join Meeting
• Meeting ID: 993 6593 5543
• Passcode: 272250

This initiative aligns with MPEDA’s mission to modernize and strengthen the seafood sector by embracing cutting-edge technologies.

The Investors Meet 2024, held on November 14 at Swaraj Dweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, showcased emerging investment prospects in fisheries and aquaculture in the region. Organized by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D), the event attracted a strong assembly of officials, including Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Lieutenant Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi, and other key ministry representatives.

The event spotlighted investment opportunities within the islands’ 6 lakh sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), rich in high-value tuna and largely untapped resources. With an estimated tuna yield potential of 60,000 metric tons but current outputs at only 4,420 metric tons, stakeholders and investors from across the country—including prominent companies like Merchant Ventures Pvt. Ltd., Uday Aqua Connects Pvt. Ltd., and Sea6 Energy Pvt. Ltd.—gathered to explore avenues for expansion.

A dedicated Tuna Cluster was announced by the Department of Fisheries as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), marking a substantial step towards strengthening India’s blue economy. Union Minister Singh underscored recent government initiatives in fisheries under programs like PMMSY, PM-MSYK, and the Blue Revolution, which have collectively drawn an unprecedented ₹38,572 crore investment since 2015. He urged investors to consider the region’s potential as a central point for fish exports, strategically situated near Southeast Asia with expanded trade routes on the horizon.

Logistics and connectivity emerged as pivotal themes. Lieutenant Governor Joshi spoke to the challenges of limited access and lengthy trade clearance times, which stem from the absence of MPEDA and EIC offices in the region. These barriers will be eased with the introduction of a new direct flight between Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Southeast Asia on November 16, intended to streamline trade connections. Port Blair now houses newly established MPEDA and EIC desks to facilitate export processes, making the region more accessible to global markets.

Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for MoFAH&D and Minority Affairs, highlighted the unique ecological and economic advantages of the islands. The Andaman & Nicobar EEZ offers pristine resources for tuna and other high-value marine species, ideal for sustainable fishing practices. Kurian encouraged a balanced approach to resource utilization, mindful of the environmental impact.

Innovation and technology also played a role in the discussions. Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel noted advancements in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Biofloc technology, both central to the government’s vision for a modern fisheries sector. Safety initiatives like transponder installations on fishing vessels were introduced to protect fishermen at sea, while Baghel emphasized the sector’s readiness to adopt sustainable practices to mitigate climate challenges.

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary (Fisheries), addressed India’s strides in marine exports, noting growth fueled by expanded processing and storage infrastructure. He highlighted the potential of emerging aquaculture sectors such as sea cage culture and marine ornamental fisheries, calling for increased private sector involvement to drive economic development and biodiversity protection.

The Investors Meet 2024 brought together fishers, entrepreneurs, and government leaders, all committed to advancing Andaman & Nicobar’s role in India’s fisheries industry. The islands are primed for transformative growth, with initiatives set to make the region a powerful contributor to India’s fisheries exports and blue economy.

Hanmakonda, Telangana: The release of water from the historic Bhadrakali Tank, a decision taken as part of a desilting and maintenance initiative, has sparked concerns among the local fishing community, who fear potential losses to their livelihoods. On Friday evening, the Irrigation Department began discharging 500 cusecs of water daily from the tank through a network of flood channels, a process expected to span over two weeks.

The Bhadrakali Tank, with a storage capacity ranging between 130 and 150 million cubic feet, is scheduled for desilting and the installation of 11 flood gates to regulate overflow during peak rains. The release is part of a larger preservation project, valued at Rs 158 crore, which includes drainage diversion and the construction of retaining walls to protect the reservoir from contamination.

However, the fishing community expressed deep concern over the water release. They voiced apprehension that draining the tank could jeopardize fish stock worth approximately Rs 2 crore, directly impacting their income. The fishermen organized a protest, calling for a halt to the water discharge until measures are taken to safeguard the fish population.

In response, officials from the Fisheries and Revenue Departments arrived on-site and assured the fishers that preventive steps would be taken. Plans include setting up protective nets to minimize fish loss during the water release process. This assurance offers some relief to the fishers, although the situation underscores the balancing act required in preserving essential water bodies while protecting local livelihoods.

Fisherfolk in Karimnagar are expressing concerns over a significant reduction in the quantity of fish seedlings allocated for local water bodies this year. Karimnagar MLA Gangula Kamalakar highlighted that the fish seedling distribution in the Karimnagar Assembly constituency was cut from last year’s 42 lakh tonnes to 21 lakh tonnes, affecting 69 local tanks. Additionally, fish seedling distribution across Karimnagar district’s various reservoirs was halved, dropping from the previous allocation of 2.20 crore tonnes to approximately half this quantity.

The free distribution of fish seedlings, along with efforts to fill tanks across the region, has previously benefited local fishing communities. In recent years, these initiatives have allowed many in the region to improve their livelihoods by supplying fish to local and nearby markets. According to Kamalakar, these practices had supported caste-based occupations associated with the fishing trade and allowed local fishermen to become significant suppliers, with some areas even achieving export potential.

However, with reduced seedling allocation this year, the region’s fishing communities are facing difficulties in maintaining their usual levels of productivity. The MLA’s recent distribution of fish seedlings at Asifnagar tank in Karimnagar’s rural mandal underscores the ongoing challenges for communities that depend on these reservoirs. Local fishermen hope for a return to previous seedling distribution levels to continue benefiting from the economic opportunities these efforts have previously generated.

Source: Telangana Today

The Government of India has announced the creation of a dedicated tuna cluster in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, aiming to strengthen the country’s fisheries sector under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), according to an official release from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

This strategic move is projected to harness economies of scale, increase revenue for local communities, and support organized growth within India’s fisheries industry. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer extensive potential for marine development, boasting around 600,000 square kilometres of an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) abundant in underutilized sea resources. Among these resources are valuable tuna and related species, with a projected stock of approximately 60,000 tonnes.

Situated near Southeast Asian trade routes, the islands provide convenient access for both sea and air transport, while the pristine waters support sustainable fishing. “Supported by well-planned administrative strategies, the region is primed to optimize its marine assets for economic progress,” noted the ministry.

This initiative will emphasize critical investments, including organizing investor forums to establish connections with tuna-fishing nations and delivering training and capacity-building programs. Additionally, exposure visits will be arranged for stakeholders to strengthen industry expertise.

With this latest development, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are set to play a significant role in India’s evolving fisheries landscape, positioning the country as a stronger competitor in global seafood markets.

The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) in Chennai recently held a remarkable competition titled “Vision 2047,” where over 40 emerging young scientists gathered to present their forward-thinking ideas. This event aimed to inspire innovation and creative problem-solving in areas critical to India’s scientific and technological growth.

The competition attracted bright minds from various scientific domains, with each participant bringing fresh perspectives and inventive solutions to the table. These young scientists showcased concepts ranging from oceanographic research advancements to cutting-edge technology applications in environmental sustainability, energy, and climate resilience. Vision 2047 reflects India’s aspirational goal of becoming a leader in scientific advancements by the nation’s centenary in 2047.

A distinguished panel of senior scientists meticulously evaluated each idea based on its feasibility, innovation, and potential to make significant impacts. This panel included highly respected professionals known for their contributions to science and technology, who were eager to witness and support the ingenuity displayed by the next generation of Indian scientists.

This initiative by NIOT underlines the importance of fostering young talent and encouraging bold ideas that align with India’s long-term scientific vision. The Vision 2047 competition is expected to not only accelerate scientific innovation but also strengthen India’s leadership in global scientific contributions.

The 22-day fishing ban on catching hilsa in rivers has finally ended at midnight, offering much-needed relief to thousands of fishermen in southern districts who have faced significant hardship during this restricted period. Officials from the Fisheries Department confirmed that the seasonal ban, aimed at protecting hilsa spawning, was successfully implemented across the region.

In Shibpur village, located within Bhola Sadar upazila, excitement was palpable as fishermen prepared their nets and boats, eager to return to the waters. “We have been waiting for this day for weeks, and tomorrow, we finally go back,” shared a fisherman from the village, voicing the anticipation shared by at least 10,000 others in the area.

A similar scene unfolded in the fishing zones of Cox’s Bazar, where an estimated 50,000 fishermen made final preparations to head out to sea. However, the community has not been without challenges.

In Bhola, a major migratory path for hilsa, the harvest target between July and September had been set at 1.85 lakh tonnes, but only 38,367 tonnes were caught, according to data from the Barishal Divisional Fisheries Office. Although the fishing ban saw stronger enforcement and greater monitoring than in previous years, officials noted a reduced migration of hilsa, potentially impacting egg release levels. The Fisheries Office reported that a more comprehensive analysis in the coming days would reveal the ban’s full impact on hilsa populations.

During the ban period, the government distributed a total of 3,19,830 tonnes of rice to over 4.21 lakh registered fishermen in Barishal division through the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) program, aimed at helping families cope with the temporary loss of income. With the ban now lifted, fishermen across the southern districts hope this season brings a productive catch and better fortunes ahead.