Assam Leads Northeast In Fisheries Development: What’s Driving Its Success?

Guwahati: As India advances toward the 'Blue Revolution,' Assam has become a major player in the development of fisheries under the schemes - Pradhan Mantri Matsya  Kisan Samriddhi Sah Yojana (PM-MKSSY) and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Assam is trying to establish itself as a major force in rural economic empowerment and sustainable fishing with major investments, digital inclusion programs, and infrastructural development. 

"We are not just growing; we are innovating. Our goal is to create a resilient, tech-driven fisheries ecosystem that benefits every stakeholder, from rural fish farmers to exporters," PMMSY Nodal Officer Chandan Chetri told Pankhi Sarma during an interview for Business North East (BNE). 

The Indian Government announced the PMMSY in 2020 while aiming to boost fisheries output, build strong infrastructure, and implement sustainable practices. Highlighting key investments and recent developments in the sector, Chandan Chettri said project worth Rs 539 crore has been approved for Assam under this project. "This funding has accelerated infrastructure upgrades and community outreach programs, creating a ripple effect across the sector," he said.

Moreover, the state organized a week-long awareness campaign under PMMKSSY to support rural fish farmers, concentrating on women participants. Over 200 camps across all the districts of Assam have been organised where  people actively took part in this initiative. The participants were basically fish farmers, technical persons from Department, KVKs, Scientist from ICAR institutes, FPOs, members of Cooperatives, NGOs etc. "This initiative is vital in transforming the traditional fisheries ecosystem into a knowledge-driven and tech-enabled sector," Chandan Chetri stated during the BNE interview.

Speaking of the registration milestone and national rankings, he said that one key highlight is the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP). Assam’s proactive approach in NFDP led to over 1.5 lakh registrations, ranking Assam third nationally. "Such digital inclusion efforts ensure no beneficiary is left behind," he said while attributing Assam's success to combining grassroots outreach and digital literacy workshops.

Similarly, financial inclusivity through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) has empowered fish farmers by providing accessible credit and insurance. "Assam’s efforts in linking over 112896 KCC applicants with the banks has enabled 53.27 Crore KCC credit to 9670 KCC applicants underscores its commitment to economic resilience in rural communities," Chandan Chetri remarked.

Infrastructure Expansion and Quality Initiatives

PMMSY’s infrastructure advancements include setting up modern hatcheries, recirculatory aquaculture units and Biofloc systems - a wastewater treatment and aquaculture technique using microbial biotechnology for water quality improvement. Notably, funding support under PMMSY for project worth Rs 50 lakh towards such innovative and advanced fish culture practice for development in the various districts of Assam will likely enhance value high production and export potential. "We are prioritizing targeted beneficiaries through direct benefit transfers, offering subsidies of up to 60% for women and SC/ST beneficiaries," Chandan Chetri stated.

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Recently, Assam brought laurels, winning the Best State for Fisheries Development in the North East and Hilly Region category, a testament to its significant achievements under PMMSY. Districts like Bongaigaon, Udalguri, Darrang and Nagaon have also garnered accolades, further solidifying Assam’s position as a leader in fisheries growth. "These recognitions are an acknowledgement of the collective efforts of the government and local communities," Chandan Chettri said, adding, "We envision Assam as the gateway for sustainable fisheries development and export potential state across the South Asian region." 

Assam’s fish production has surged from 2.93 lakh metric tons in 2015 to 4.74 lakh MT as of 2023. Furthermore, fish seed production exceeded 20,000 million last year. With its strategic location, the state now supplies fisheries products to neighbouring northeastern states, boosting regional trade.

Moreover, Assam aims to align its fisheries roadmap with the national vision of the Blue Revolution. "Our focus remains on eco-friendly aquaculture, robust infrastructure, and grassroots empowerment. We’re confident of surpassing our targets in the coming years," the PMMSY Nodal Officer stated during the exclusive interview.