MUMBAI (Economy India): Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation for several development projects in Palghar, Maharashtra, including 218 fisheries projects worth approximately ₹1,560 crore. Modi also launched the national rollout of the Vessel Communication and Assistance System, developed at a cost of around ₹360 crore. Additionally, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for key fisheries infrastructure projects, including the construction, upgrading, and modernization of fishing harbors, fish landing centers, and fish markets. He also distributed transponder sets and Kisan Credit Cards to fishermen.
Fishing Community: Key Partners in Maritime Development
PM Modi emphasized the crucial role of India’s fishing community as key partners in harnessing maritime opportunities. Reflecting on his interactions with beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), he highlighted the transformation in the sector over the past decade, driven by government schemes and a service-oriented approach.
India’s Growth in Fish Production and Exports
He noted that India is now the world’s second-largest fish producer, with fish production doubling from 80 lakh tons in 2014 to 170 lakh tons today. Modi also mentioned the growth in India’s seafood exports, with shrimp exports more than doubling to over ₹40,000 crore, attributing this success to the Blue Revolution, which has created millions of new job opportunities.
Empowering Women in the Fisheries Sector
The Prime Minister highlighted government efforts to promote the participation of women in the fisheries sector, noting that thousands of women have been supported under the PMMSY. He discussed advanced technologies and satellite systems, including the launch of the Vessel Communication System, which will greatly benefit the fishing community.
Enhancing Communication and Safety for Fishermen
Modi announced plans to equip 1 lakh vessels with transponders, enabling seamless communication between fishermen, their families, boat owners, fisheries departments, and coastguards. This system will assist fishermen in communicating during emergencies, cyclones, or other adverse events, with the government prioritizing the saving of lives.
Developing Coastal Infrastructure for Fishing Vessels
Modi stated that over 110 fishing harbors and landing centers are being constructed for the safe return of fishing vessels. Highlighting the government’s focus on developing coastal villages, he cited examples such as cold chains, processing facilities, and loan schemes for boats under the PMMSY, which are strengthening fishermen’s organizations.
Commitment to Marginalized Communities
The Prime Minister emphasized that the current government has always worked for marginalized communities, establishing separate ministries for both fishermen and tribal communities. He noted that previously neglected tribal regions are now benefiting from the PM Janman Yojana, with both tribal and fishing communities making significant contributions to the nation’s development.
Key Facts
Here is a table of key facts based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent initiatives in Palghar, Maharashtra:
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Event | Palghar, Maharashtra |
| Total Value of Fisheries Projects Inaugurated | ₹1,560 crore |
| National Rollout of Vessel Communication System | Developed at a cost of ₹360 crore |
| Foundation Laid for Fisheries Infrastructure | Includes construction, upgrading, and modernization of fishing harbors, fish landing centers, and markets |
| Distribution to Fishermen | Transponder sets and Kisan Credit Cards |
| India’s Rank in Global Fish Production | Second-largest fish producer in the world |
| Growth in Fish Production | Increased from 80 lakh tons in 2014 to 170 lakh tons in 2024 |
| Growth in Shrimp Exports | More than doubled to over ₹40,000 crore |
| Planned Equipment for Fishing Vessels | 1 lakh vessels to be equipped with transponders |
| Government Focus on Coastal Development | Includes cold chains, processing facilities, and loan schemes under PMMSY |
| Support for Women in Fisheries Sector | Thousands of women supported under PMMSY |
| Construction of Fishing Harbors and Landing Centers | Over 110 fishing harbors and landing centers being built |
| Government Focus on Marginalized Communities | Separate ministries established for fishermen and tribal communities |
| Impact on Tribal and Fishing Communities | Significant contributions to national development through PM Janman Yojana and other initiatives |
(copyright@economyindia)
