Bhubaneswar, July 10(OT webdesk): The Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA), Bhubaneswar, witnessed a landmark celebration of National Fish Farmers Day 2025, where Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh unveiled 17 new fisheries clusters under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
This strategic expansion brings the total clusters across India to 34, boosting regional productivity and livelihoods.
With an investment of Rs 105 crore across 70 newly launched projects in 11 states, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying reasserted its commitment to transforming the fisheries sector.
The event also featured the release of ICAR’s training calendar and new seed certification and hatchery guidelines aimed at standardising quality production.
Singh celebrated the contributions of traditional fishers, cooperatives, KCC beneficiaries, and startups, underscoring India’s rise as the world’s second-largest fish producer.
He emphasised that inland fisheries now account for 75% of total production, supporting over 3 crore livelihoods.
Odisha’s pivotal role was highlighted, particularly its contribution toward achieving the national goal of 195 lakh tonnes of fish production.
Future plans focus on deep-sea ventures, modernising harbours, disaster preparedness, and establishing Aqua Parks and scampi hatcheries.
The government’s Vision 2047 aims to shape a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive fisheries sector powered by innovation, sustainability, and economic upliftment.
