India, with a coastline of over 8,000 kilometers and vast inland water resources, has immense potential in the fisheries sector. Recognizing its importance in nutritional security, rural livelihoods, and export potential, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in May 2020. It aims to bring about a blue revolution by enhancing fish production, creating infrastructure, and doubling fishers’ income.
Objectives of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
The PMMSY has been launched with the following key objectives:
- Increase fish production to 22 million metric tonnes by 2024–25.
- Improve productivity and incomes of fishers and fish farmers.
- Create employment opportunities in the fisheries value chain.
- Promote sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
- Reduce post-harvest losses from the current 20–25% to about 10%.
- Develop modern infrastructure such as fishing harbors, cold storage, and fish markets.
Key Features
- Total investment of ₹20,050 crore for the 5-year period 2020–25.
- Centrally Sponsored Scheme with components split between Central and State/UT governments.
- Focus on marine, inland, and aquaculture sectors.
- Integrated approach involving harvesting, post-harvest management, marketing, and export.
- Support for fisheries startups, cooperatives, and women entrepreneurs.
Financial Outlay and Performance (as of 2025)
As of 2025, PMMSY has already achieved significant milestones:
- ₹12,500 crore of the total ₹20,050 crore has been sanctioned.
- Over 21 lakh fishers and farmers have benefited through direct and indirect support.
- Fish production has reached 17.5 million metric tonnes, moving closer to the 2024–25 target.
- Infrastructure projects such as fish landing centers, cold chains, and fish markets are underway in over 22 states.
- Fisheries exports have increased by 9.2% in 2024–25 compared to the previous fiscal year.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana has become a cornerstone in India’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat strategy.
Benefits to Fishers and the Economy
PMMSY is designed to uplift the fisheries sector holistically:
- Income Enhancement: Financial assistance, subsidies, and credit access for small-scale fishers.
- Job Creation: Over 55 lakh employment opportunities expected by 2025.
- Technology Adoption: Introduction of Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), biofloc technology, and mobile advisory services.
- Export Promotion: Better processing and packaging boosts India’s position in the global seafood market.
- Inclusivity: Strong emphasis on women’s participation and support for Scheduled Castes and Tribes.
Implementation Mechanism
The scheme is implemented through:
- Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
- States and UTs executing the scheme via District Fisheries Offices.
- Private sector and cooperative participation encouraged through PPP models.
- Monitoring via MIS portals and mobile-based tracking apps.
The approach ensures convergence with schemes like Kisan Credit Card, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, and Digital India.
Challenges Faced
Despite its transformative goals, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana has faced some roadblocks:
- Low awareness among traditional fishers in remote coastal belts.
- Inadequate cold-chain and storage in interior regions.
- Climate impact on marine ecosystems and catch unpredictability.
- Credit access issues for small aquaculture farmers.
Efforts are ongoing to streamline documentation, expand outreach, and train fishers in modern practices and value addition.
Impact and Future Outlook
The scheme has brought structural and sustainable reform to the Indian fisheries sector. The Blue Economy is now a strategic priority, contributing to both GDP and employment.
As India looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, the government plans to:
- Achieve fish production of 22 million metric tonnes by March 2025.
- Expand fish processing and export hubs.
- Ensure 100% saturation of Kisan Credit Cards among fishers.
- Increase digital and mobile access for real-time advisories on weather and fish movement.
- Implement climate-resilient fisheries strategies for long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is much more than a fisheries scheme—it’s a comprehensive strategy to unlock the true potential of India’s aquatic wealth. By creating a modern, tech-driven, and inclusive ecosystem, PMMSY is empowering lakhs of fishers, ensuring nutritional security, and building a globally competitive fisheries sector.
As the scheme progresses, it stands as a symbol of blue revolution, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship rolled into one visionary mission.
Further Information
For more details, visit the official website of the Department of Fisheries:
https://dof.gov.in
