The Blue Revolution is advancing swiftly in Assam propelling the state to a leading position post-implementation of Prime Minister Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMSSY).
Business North East (BNE) conducted an exclusive interview with the Director of Fisheries, Gauri Sankar Das, to learn about the outcome of PMMSY in the state, recent government initiatives and the state's achievement in the fishery sector.
Director of Fisheries, Gauri Sankar Das, with journalist Priyanka Chakrabarty
Excerpts of the Q&A interview:
BNE: Please tell us about the progress under the PMMSY and how the Blue Revolution is being realized in Assam.
Director: The Government of India has been very supportive. Under PMMSY, an indicative allocation of Rs. 544 crore was made initially, and so far, we have received ₹550 crore for 34 activities since 2021. These funds have enabled Assam to achieve significant milestones. We have been recognized as the Best State twice since 2021, our districts have received three national awards, and farmers have earned recognition twice. On World Fisheries Day, we have earned recognition for top-performing districts and best cooperatives, such as Sivasagar.
BNE: What are the current fish production and consumption statistics in Assam?
Director: Based on recent statistical data, current per capita fish consumption in Assam is 12.5 kilograms, with a total production of 4.45 million metric tons. Our target by 2030 is to increase production to 7 million metric tons and raise per capita consumption to 15 kilograms annually.
BNE: Which districts are leading in fish production?
Director: Districts like Nalbari, Barpeta, and Goalpara are prominent for fish production. These areas have favourable conditions and a strong community of fish farmers.
BNE: What technological innovations have been introduced in the fisheries sector?
Director: PMMSY covers 34 components, including advanced technologies such as Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Biofloc systems. These innovations help increase production efficiency and sustainability.
BNE: We have heard about the National Digital Portal for Fisheries. Can you elaborate on it?
Director: Certainly. So far, 1,42,900 fishermen have registered on the portal. By registering, fishers can access various benefits, including insurance coverage, government incentives, and other schemes. For instance, we recently provided ₹5 lakh to the family of a fisherman who passed away tragically.
BNE: What marketing facilities does your department offer to support fishermen?
Director: We are developing policies to streamline and enhance marketing opportunities. Markets in urban and suburban areas are being integrated through a unified district-level development plan, ensuring better market accessibility and fair prices for fishers.
BNE: Many educated individuals are entering the fisheries sector. How is the state encouraging them?
Director: We provide extensive support, including subsidies for projects such as feed mills and trial ponds, with financial assistance of up to Rs. 2 crore. This motivates educated entrepreneurs to explore fisheries as a viable business option.
BNE: Recently, Darrang district secured the top rank on World Fisheries Day. What contributed to its success?
Director: Darrang district has immense potential due to its favourable soil and water quality. The beneficiaries in the district have utilized government support effectively, leading to remarkable achievements in fish production.
BNE: How can other districts replicate the success of the Darrang district?
Director: All districts are working hard to reach their potential. We provide equal support across the state, and districts are gradually improving through better utilization of resources and technology.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
