The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) stands as a groundbreaking initiative introduced by the Department of Fisheries, operating under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. This visionary scheme is not merely about bolstering the fisheries sector; rather, it is about orchestrating a profound transformation marked by sustainability, economic viability, and social inclusivity.
At its core, PMMSY is designed to foster an ecosystem of ecologically healthy practices within India’s fisheries sector. By promoting sustainable fishing methods, conserving aquatic habitats, and encouraging responsible resource management, the scheme endeavors to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the country’s aquatic ecosystems.
Objectives of PMMSY
- Sustainable Development: PMMSY endeavors to harness the vast potential of the fisheries sector in a sustainable, responsible, inclusive, and equitable manner.
- Enhanced Productivity: It seeks to enhance fish production and productivity through various means, including expansion, intensification, diversification, and efficient utilization of land and water resources.
- Value Chain Strengthening: Modernizing and strengthening the value chain, including post-harvest management and quality improvement, is a key focus area.
- Income Doubling: PMMSY aims to double the incomes of fishers and fish farmers while generating meaningful employment opportunities.
- Contribution to Agricultural GVA and Export: The scheme aims to enhance the contribution of the fisheries sector to Agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) and increase export earnings substantially.
- Social and Economic Security: Ensuring social, physical, and economic security for fishers and fish farmers is a crucial objective.
- Regulatory Framework: PMMSY aims to establish a robust fisheries management and regulatory framework to govern the sector effectively.
Targets of PMMSY
Fish Production and Productivity
- Increasing fish production to 22 million metric tons by 2024-25.
- Improving aquaculture productivity to 5 tons per hectare.
- Boosting domestic fish consumption from 5 kg to 12 kg per capita.
Economic Value Addition
- Raising the contribution of the fisheries sector to Agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) to approximately 9% by 2024-25.
- Doubling export earnings to ₹1,00,000 crores by 2024-25.
- Encouraging private investment and entrepreneurship in the fisheries sector.
- Reducing post-harvest losses from 20-25% to about 10%.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is poised to revolutionize India’s fisheries sector by promoting sustainable practices, enhancing productivity, and ensuring the welfare of fishers and fish farmers. With its ambitious targets and comprehensive objectives, PMMSY sets the stage for a prosperous and inclusive future for the nation’s fisheries industry.
