Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects in Palghar, Maharashtra, signaling a significant boost to the region’s fisheries and coastal infrastructure. Among the key initiatives, the Prime Minister launched 218 fisheries projects worth approximately Rs 1,560 crore and announced the nationwide rollout of the Vessel Communication and Support system, a project valued at around Rs 360 crore.
During the event, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for several critical fishery infrastructure projects, including the modernization of fishing harbors, the construction of fish landing centers, and the development of fish markets. He also distributed transponder sets and Kisan Credit Cards to beneficiaries from the fishing community.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of India’s fishermen as crucial partners in harnessing ocean-related opportunities. Reflecting on his conversations with beneficiaries of the PM Matsya Sampada scheme, he highlighted the dramatic transformation of the fisheries sector over the past decade, crediting government initiatives for doubling fish production from 80 lakh tonnes in 2014 to 170 lakh tonnes today. PM Modi also noted the surge in shrimp exports, which have more than doubled, reaching over Rs 40,000 crore today, thanks to the Blue Revolution Scheme that has created numerous employment opportunities.
PM Modi also spotlighted the government’s efforts to increase women’s participation in the fisheries sector, particularly through the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana. He praised the launch of the Vessel Communication System, which will enable fishermen to maintain connectivity with their families, boat owners, and emergency services, ensuring safety during adverse conditions such as cyclones. The Prime Minister announced plans to install one lakh transponders on fishing vessels to enhance communication and safety.
Furthermore, PM Modi highlighted the ongoing construction of over 110 fishing ports and landing centers to ensure the safe return of fishermen’s vessels. He mentioned the government’s focus on developing coastal villages through initiatives like cold chain facilities, processing centers, and loan schemes under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister emphasized his government’s commitment to uplifting backward and marginalized communities, contrasting it with previous administrations that he said had neglected the tribal and fishing communities. He noted that the current government has established separate ministries for both fishermen and tribal communities, ensuring that these groups now play a vital role in India’s development.
