The Department of Fisheries and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in a major step toward modernizing and improving market access in the fisheries sector. The signing ceremony, graced by Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Parshottam Rupala and Minister of State Dr. L Murugan among other dignitaries, took place today in New Delhi.
Empowering Stakeholders Through Digital Transformation
The collaboration between the Department of Fisheries and ONDC seeks to establish a digital platform that empowers all stakeholders, including traditional fishermen, fish farmers, producer organizations, and entrepreneurs in the fisheries sector. ONDC, renowned for its unique e-marketing platform, is poised to play a pivotal role by structurally connecting fishermen, fish farmers, Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs), self-help groups, and other cooperatives.
During the ceremony, Union Minister Parshottam Rupala engaged with representatives of FFPOs, who shared their transformative experiences since joining the ONDC platform. Success stories, such as the development of live fish transport units, were lauded by Rupala, who encouraged further automation in fish processing units.
Focus on Automation and Value Addition
Highlighting the need for automation in the value chain, Parshottam Rupala emphasized the importance of integrating digital solutions into fish processing units. The collaboration with ONDC is expected to address these challenges while unlocking the vast potential of digital commerce in the Indian fisheries sector. Benefits include reduced transaction costs, increased market reach, enhanced transparency, competitiveness, innovation, and employment generation.
Groundbreaking Initiative for Value Addition
Dr. L Murugan underscored the groundbreaking nature of the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the fisheries sector. He stressed the importance of promoting value-added fisheries products to enable producers to capture higher margins and diversify their offerings, thereby boosting domestic fish consumption.
Capacity Building and Outreach
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi emphasized the importance of capacity building, training, and outreach efforts to empower fishermen in utilizing ONDC's features effectively. Stakeholders will be equipped to differentiate their products based on quality, certifications, and sustainable practices, enhancing their market competitiveness.
Sagar Mehra highlighted the Department of Fisheries' initiative in supporting FFPOs and their integration into the ONDC network. Currently, around 35 FFPOs spanning 10 states have joined the platform, with further expansion anticipated.
Inclusive Approach Towards Economic Development
The signing ceremony, attended by approximately 120 stakeholders and facilitated through video conferencing for extended participants, underscores the government's commitment to ensuring equitable market opportunities. This comprehensive approach aims to promote social inclusion and foster equitable economic development within the fisheries sector.
Department of Fisheries signs a MoU with Open Network for Digital Commerce in the presence of Union Minister @PRupala and MoS @Murugan_MoS https://t.co/bAIcQIlBOg@Min_FAHD @Dept_of_AHD @FisheriesGoI @PIB_India pic.twitter.com/RFqAeNSGgL
— PIB in Tamil Nadu (@pibchennai) February 19, 2024
