India’s first Organic Fisheries Cluster was launched in Soreng District, Sikkim, by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh under the PMMSY initiative, promoting sustainable, chemical-free aquaculture aligned with Sikkim’s organic farming practices. NABARD will provide financial and technical support, empowering farmers, boosting eco-friendly fish production, and tapping into global organic markets. Additionally, 50 projects worth ₹50 crore were inaugurated in the Northeast, strengthening fisheries infrastructure, enhancing productivity, and creating over 4,500 jobs as part of India’s Blue Economy vision.
Key Highlights
- Launch of Organic Fisheries Cluster:
- India’s first organic fisheries cluster launched in Soreng District, Sikkim.
- Focus on sustainable aquaculture without antibiotics, chemicals, or pesticides.
- Initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
- Objective:
- Boost farmer incomes and promote eco-friendly aquaculture.
- Tap into global eco-conscious markets for organic fish products.
- Support by NABARD:
- Financial and technical assistance for infrastructure and capacity building.
- Formation of fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
- Cluster-Based Approach:
- Enhances competitiveness, strengthens fisheries value chain, and promotes sustainable practices.
- Includes initiatives like Pearl, Seaweed, Ornamental Fisheries, and Cold Water Fisheries clusters.
North-East Region (NER) Fisheries Focus
- Investment and Growth:
- ₹2,114 crore invested through schemes like PMMSY and FIDF.
- Inland fish production in the NER increased from 4.03 lakh tonnes (2014-15) to 6.41 lakh tonnes (2023-24).
- Infrastructure Development:
- Modern aquaculture parks, hatcheries, and fish processing units.
- Adoption of advanced technologies like Biofloc systems and Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS).
- Impact of New Projects:
- 50 projects worth ₹50 crore inaugurated in NER.
- Central share of ₹38.63 crore.
- Expected to create 4,530 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Significance of Organic Fisheries in Sikkim
- Alignment with Organic Vision:
- Sikkim, known for organic farming, integrates fisheries into its sustainable agriculture framework.
- Organic aquaculture to promote minimal environmental pollution and healthy ecosystems.
- Market Opportunities:
- Premium pricing for organic fish in domestic and international markets.
- Export potential of organic fish products.
- Benefits:
- Economic: Enhanced incomes and reduced dependence on harmful chemicals.
- Environmental: Sustainable fish farming and ecosystem preservation.
- Social: Empowerment of fish farmers and fishers’ cooperatives.
Government’s Vision for Fisheries
- Blue Revolution:
- Drive sustainable fisheries development to enhance livelihoods.
- NER positioned as a critical hub for India’s Blue Economy vision.
- Strategic Focus:
- Creation of diverse fisheries clusters based on regional needs.
- Strengthened value chains to improve productivity and market access.
Reference : PIB
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