Why in News?
The need for strengthening last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services is highlighted recently by the Government of India.
- It is a fisheries extension and support services.
- Launched in – 2020.
- Aim – To provide a one-stop solution for fishers and fish farmers through a range of extension services provided by trained aquaculture professionals.
- Umbrella Scheme – Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samapada Yojana (PMMSY).
- Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
- Government assistance – Upto 60% covers women and weaker sections.
- Fund dispersal - Funds have been provided to State governments and Union Territories for operationalising 102 such Kendras.
- Functions – It establishes lab for water, soil, and microbial analysis to conduct request-based disease tests.
- It focuses on capacity building for fishers/fish farmers on varied seed/feed inputs backed with the required technology infusion.
- Future proposals – Government advises MSKs to mobilise start-ups, cooperatives, fish farmers’ producer organisations, joint liability groups, and self-help groups to share best practices.
Other initiatives of Fisheries Extension Services
- Sagar Mitras – They are deployed in coastal States and U.T.s as a vital interface between the government and sea-borne fishers.
- National Fisheries Digital Paltform – It is a platform to formalize the fisheries sector.
- AquaBazaar – It is a nationwide virtual learning platform, initiated by National Fisheries Development Board.
- It enables experts to clarify basic concepts and provide practical demonstrations to fishers on breeding/seed production of commercially important fish.
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India’s Fisheries Sector
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- National Fish Production – It has witnessed an 83% since 2013-14, that stands at a record 175 lakh tons in 2022-23.
- With 75% of this coming from inland fisheries.
- India is the 2nd largest fish and aquaculture producer globally.
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Reference
The Hindu| Matsya Seva Kendras (MSKs)
