Explores sustainability practices, export competitiveness & infrastructure gaps

NITI Aayog in partnership with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, successfully organised a two-day National Workshop on “Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in the States within the country,” in Visakhapatnam. 

It is a collaborative effort aimed at maximising the potential of fisheries in India’s inland states of India. The workshop, held recently, was attended by key stakeholders including central and state government officials, researchers, industry representatives, practitioners and Fish Farmer Producer Organisation (FFPO).

The workshop in its various technical sessions focused on important aspects such as sustainability practices, export competitiveness, infrastructure gaps, and livelihood challenges facing India’s inland fisheries industry. 

Minister Mr. Parshotam Rupala emphasised the need for active guidance and skill development of traditional fishermen to enhance their competitiveness. He also discussed the concept of connecting each Amrit Sarovar to create livelihood opportunities through inland fisheries. 

He suggested that the fish market should adopt a marketing approach similar to that of a “fish mall,” thereby promoting a shopping mall like culture in metropolitan cities. 

He highlighted the government’s emphasis on fisheries, including initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Blue Revolution, FIDH, and other insurance related schemes.

Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, highlighted the achievements of Andhra Pradesh in the fisheries sector and stressed the importance of addressing regional disparities in production and productivity. 

Technical sessions on “Sustainability in Inland Fisheries: FFPOs/Cooperatives Led Development Models” and “Issues and Challenges in Inland Fisheries Industry in India were organised on the second day.