IANS | 18 Feb, 2024
NITI Aayog in partnership with the government of Andhra Pradesh
organised a two-day National Workshop in Visakhapatnam which concluded
on Friday with the drawing up of a future roadmap that emphasises the
importance of inter-state and Centre-state cooperation in realising the
immense growth potential of India's inland fisheries sector.
The
workshop in its various technical sessions focused on crucial aspects
such as sustainability practices, export competitiveness, infrastructure
gaps, and livelihood challenges facing India's inland fisheries
industry, NITI Aayog said in a statement.
It was a collaborative effort aimed at maximising the potential of fisheries in India's inland states.
As
many as 13 states showcased their accomplishments, potential,
challenges, and best practices during the workshop, the statement added.
The
key stakeholders who participated in the discussions included central
and state government officials, researchers, industry representatives,
practitioners and Fish Farmer Producer Organisation (FFPO).
Union
Minister Parshottam Rupala emphasised the need for active handholding
and skill development of traditional fishermen to enhance their
competitiveness.
He also addressed the concept of connecting each
Amrit Sarovar to create opportunities for generating livelihoods through
inland fisheries.
The minister also suggested that the fish
market should adopt a marketing approach similar to that of a "fish
mall", fostering a culture akin to shopping malls 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 of NITI Aayog, highlighted the achievements of
Andhra Pradesh in the fisheries sector and stressed the importance of
addressing regional disparities in production and productivity.
The
second day of the workshop featured technical sessions on
"Sustainability in Inland Fisheries: FFPOs/Cooperatives Led Development
Models" and "Issues and Challenges in Inland Fisheries Industry in
India".
These sessions facilitated discussions among policymakers,
industry players, and fisheries startups, identifying actionable
recommendations and future roadmaps for the sector's growth.
The
relationships forged and next steps identified during the event would
lay a strong foundation for the sector's significant growth
opportunities in the future.
The Centre has increased the
allocation for the Department of Fisheries by 15 per cent to an
impressive Rs 2,584.5 crore in the Interim Budget for financial year
2024-25 as part of its policy to promote the sector.
Finance
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted that a separate Fisheries
Department was established to assist fishermen that has resulted in
doubling both inland and aquaculture production, doubling of seafood
exports since 2013-14.