On Monday, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, will hand over advanced deep-sea fishing vessels, each costing Rs 1.2 crore, to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana at Mazagon Dock, Mumbai.
The event, where Shah will formally present the keys to the vessels, is being described as a milestone in cooperative-led deep-sea fishing.
According to an official statement on Sunday, it highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance, sustainable fisheries, and empowering cooperative societies in the sector.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with his deputies Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, will likely attend the ceremony.
The distribution of these vessels comes under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, with each vessel priced at Rs 1.2 crore.
Financial backing is provided by the Government of Maharashtra, the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), and the Department of Fisheries, Government of India.
Officials said the scheme reflects the Modi government’s focus on realising Aatmanirbhar Bharat while boosting the Blue Economy.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, it marks a major push to modernise marine fisheries, expand deep-sea fishing capacity, and encourage cooperative-led growth along India’s coastlines.
Exploring India’s Marine Resources
The initiative will also help explore marine resources within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond.
To enhance cooperative-based deep-sea fishing through cooperatives and Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs), the Department of Fisheries and the Ministry of Cooperation have set up a Joint Working Group (JWG).
Traditionally, India’s marine fisheries have been small-scale operations.
Fishermen have relied on conventional vessels and methods, usually venturing just 40–60 nautical miles from the shore, which has restricted catch volume and profitability.
The initiative aims to enable fisheries cooperative societies and FFPOs to harness the full potential of India’s EEZ and high seas sustainably, particularly near Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
It is expected to unlock high-value fisheries, such as tuna, increase seafood exports, and improve livelihoods in coastal communities.
The inauguration at Mazagon Dock signifies a turning point in modernising India’s marine fisheries infrastructure.
These newly built vessels come with advanced technology for sustainable resource harvesting while minimising ecological impact and boosting economic returns.
Onboard digital systems will ensure improved traceability, operational efficiency, and safety, aligning India’s practices with international standards for responsible fishing.
A central aim of the programme is to reinforce fisheries cooperatives, which are vital for coastal community empowerment.
The scheme supports the growth of Fish Farmer Producer Organisations and cooperative societies, helping them achieve self-reliance.
It also places emphasis on women-led cooperatives, recognising their role in fostering inclusive growth, leadership, and socio-economic development in coastal regions.
Also Read: Odisha Farmers Receive Boost As PM Modi Hails Koraput Coffee In Mann Ki Baat
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
