Coastal States meet to unveil fisheries projects

Mumbai

The government will hold the ‘Coastal States Meet 2025’ in Mumbai on Monday, where fisheries projects worth Rs 255 crore will be launched. The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, is organizing the event under Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh’s leadership.

At the meet, Singh will inaugurate and lay foundations for major fisheries projects across seven coastal states and union territories (UTs) under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). These efforts aim to improve the marine fisheries sector and promote sustainable fishing practices.

New initiatives like the Marine Fisheries Census Operations and the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) project will also be launched. A Standard Operating Procedure for Vessel Communication and Support System will be released too.

India’s fisheries sector is vital for supporting rural livelihoods and boosting the economy. With a coastline of 7,516 kilometers and an Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.02 million square kilometers, India’s marine fish production potential is around 5.31 million tonnes. Coastal areas produce 72% of India’s fish and 76% of seafood exports.

During the event, outstanding cooperatives, fisheries startups, and climate-resilient villages will be honored. Aqua Insurance certificates and Kisan Credit Cards will also be given to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY).

This is the first time Aqua Insurance is being introduced, offering aquafarmers financial protection and digital access to support.

The meet will also feature technical sessions and an exhibition, showcasing innovations, best practices, and policies to strengthen India’s marine fisheries sector and boost exports.