Parshottam Rupala Visits Leh to Boost Fisheries Ecosystem in Country

The visit's vision and goal were to strengthen the development of the fisheries sector, among other things. The journey of the review meeting programme had already begun in other Union Territories/States of the country, where Parshottam Rupala interacted with beneficiaries and other respective stakeholders regarding fisheries sector development.

The primary goals of the review meeting programme are (i) to facilitate interaction with beneficiaries, fish farmers, fishermen, and stakeholders in order to disseminate information about various fisheries-related schemes and programmes being implemented by the government; (ii) to demonstrate solidarity with all fisher folk, fish farmers, and concerned stakeholders in the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat; and (iii) to promote responsible fisheries with a focus on sustainable balance between fisheries and agriculture. (iv) infrastructure improvement and creation to ensure sustainable and responsible development through an ecosystem approach.

Following that, Parshottam Rupala spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojna (PMMSY) scheme and other multidimensional blue revolution activities, with a focus on increasing fisheries production and productivity (both inland and marine) and its associated activities, such as infrastructure development, marketing, exports, and institutional arrangements, among others.

In this regard, he presided over the review meeting at Kargyam Satoo. Parshottam Rupala interacted with dignitaries/officers, PMMSY and KCC beneficiaries. Furthermore, he emphasised the implementation of the PMMSY scheme in all states and union territories, and spoke in detail about closing critical gaps in the value chain of fisheries through the implementation of schemes such as PMMSY and KCC for beneficiaries, fish farmers, and fishermen.

Parshottam Rupala highlighted the Department of Fisheries' significant achievements, such as the establishment of four new trout fish hatcheries, the construction of 200 new raceways, the sanctioned establishment of four RAS, the sanctioned establishment of four ornamental breeding and rearing units, the construction of five fish kiosks, and the construction of twenty motorcycles with ice boxes under post-harvest transportation units.

He also discussed the financial achievements in the fisheries sector for Blue Revolution, PMMSY, and KCC, with a total targeted investment of Rs 47 Crore and central fund allocation of Rs 30 Crore.

Rupala also emphasized the importance of expediting project implementation and utilizing funds set aside for the purpose. He has also informed them that they must prepare and submit an annual action plan under PMMSY for the next two years (2023-24 and 2024-25).

The Minister held public meetings in Phobrang and discussed various activities within the departments. An interaction session with fish farmers and fishermen was organized, and local people participated in the session and voiced their concerns and suggestions. This interactive session assisted in identifying issues that will be addressed in order to improve fisheries development.

These review meeting programmes will have a long-term impact on future generations, addressing multiple developmental issues in a comprehensive manner with far-reaching implications for the fisheries sector.