In response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Amit Shah announced the implementation of a comprehensive plan for establishing new primary cooperative societies, with a specific focus on fisheries cooperative societies.
The execution of this initiative is spearheaded by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), with collaborative support from institutions such as NABARD, NDDB, National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), National Level Cooperative Federations, and State Governments.
The primary objective of this plan is to empower small and marginal farmers, including those engaged in fish production, by providing essential forward and backward linkages, skill development, and the necessary infrastructure for processing and cold chain facilities. The overarching goal is to enhance their income levels significantly.
Under the identified schemes for convergence, marginal fishermen stand to benefit by modernizing and upgrading their facilities, establishing various fisheries and aquaculture-related infrastructures, ultimately leading to improved productivity.
Minister Shah highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), wherein beneficiaries are entitled to financial assistance ranging from 40% to 60% of the total project cost or unit cost. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of the Fisheries & Aquaculture Infrastructure Fund (FIDF), designed to create infrastructural facilities in both marine and inland fisheries sectors.
This ambitious plan aims to catalyse growth in the fisheries sector, offering tangible support to those involved in fish production and allied activities, with a focus on sustainable development and increased financial returns.
