In her recent budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the fisheries sector, recognizing its vital role in the nation’s economy. This article provides a detailed overview of the key highlights and initiatives outlined by the Finance Minister to bolster the fisheries sector in India.
Nirmala Sitharaman’s Commitment to Fisheries Sector
Finance Minister Sitharaman highlighted the government’s proactive approach towards assisting fishermen by setting up a separate Department for Fisheries. This strategic move has resulted in a significant increase in both inland and aquaculture production, effectively doubling the output in recent years.
Growth in Seafood Exports
One of the key achievements highlighted by the Finance Minister was the impressive growth in seafood exports since 2013-14, with exports effectively doubling during this period. This growth not only reflects the increasing demand for Indian seafood in the global market but also highlights the sector’s potential for further expansion.
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Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
The Finance Minister outlined the government’s ambitious plans to further boost the fisheries sector through the accelerated implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This scheme aims to achieve three key objectives:
- Increasing Aquaculture Productivity: The government aims to increase aquaculture productivity from the existing 3 tons per hectare to an ambitious 5 tons per hectare, thereby enhancing the overall productivity of the sector.
- Doubling Seafood Exports: With a target of 1 lakh crore, the government aims to double seafood exports, positioning India as a major player in the global seafood market and boosting foreign exchange earnings.
- Generating Employment Opportunities: The implementation of PMMSY is expected to generate a substantial 55 lakh employment opportunities in the near future, providing a significant boost to livelihoods in the fisheries sector.

Accelerated Implementation of PMMSY
To facilitate the accelerated implementation of PMMSY, the government announced the establishment of five integrated aquaparks across the country. These aquaparks will serve as centers for advanced aquaculture practices, research, and development, fostering innovation and growth in the fisheries sector.
Transformation of Fisheries Sector
As the budget proposals unfold, it is evident that the fisheries sector is poised for a significant transformation, with the government’s proactive measures aimed at not only boosting production and exports but also creating a multitude of employment opportunities for the country’s workforce. The successful implementation of these initiatives is expected to position India as a global leader in the fisheries and aquaculture industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget announcements underscore the government’s steadfast commitment to transforming the fisheries sector in India. The initiatives outlined are not only aimed at boosting production and exports but also at creating a conducive environment for innovation and growth in the sector.
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FAQs
- What is the significance of setting up a separate Department for Fisheries? Setting up a separate Department for Fisheries highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of assisting fishermen and boosting production in the sector.
- How has seafood exports grown since 2013-14? Seafood exports have effectively doubled since 2013-14, reflecting the increasing demand for Indian seafood in the global market.
- What are the key objectives of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)? The key objectives of PMMSY are to increase aquaculture productivity, double seafood exports, and generate employment opportunities in the fisheries sector.
- How many integrated aquaparks are planned to be established across the country? The government plans to establish five integrated aquaparks across the country to facilitate advanced aquaculture practices and research.
- What is the expected impact of the government’s initiatives on the fisheries sector? The government’s initiatives are expected to transform the fisheries sector by boosting production, exports, and employment opportunities, positioning India as a global leader in the industry.
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