The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is the Central Government’s flagship scheme for the fisheries sector. It aims to increase fish production, improve incomes of fishers and fish farmers, and build infrastructure. Here is how it works.
About the scheme
PMMSY was launched in September 2020 with a total investment of Rs 20,050 crore, initially for five years from 2020-21. It is run by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, with state governments.
Goals
- Increase fish production and productivity
- Improve post harvest infrastructure and reduce losses
- Double incomes of fishers and fish farmers
- Create jobs in fisheries
- Improve welfare and safety of fishers
What is supported
- New fish ponds and tanks for freshwater and brackish water aquaculture
- Biofloc and recirculating aquaculture systems
- Cage culture in reservoirs and the sea
- Fish seed hatcheries and feed mills
- Ice plants, cold storage and fish transport vehicles
- Fish kiosks and markets
- Deep sea fishing vessels and upgrades of boats
- Ornamental fisheries and seaweed farming
- Insurance and livelihood support for fishers during the lean season
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Subsidy rates
For beneficiary oriented projects, the government gives financial assistance of up to:
- 40 percent of the project cost for general category beneficiaries
- 60 percent for SC, ST and women beneficiaries
The rest is paid by the beneficiary, either from their own funds or a bank loan. Unit costs and caps are fixed in the scheme guidelines.
Who can apply
Fishers, fish farmers, fish workers, self help groups, fisheries cooperatives, FPOs, entrepreneurs and companies can apply, depending on the activity.
How to apply
- Contact your district fisheries officer or the state fisheries department.
- Prepare a detailed project report for the chosen activity.
- Submit the application with land or water body documents, ID, bank details and caste certificate if applicable.
- Projects are selected and approved by district and state committees.
Some states accept applications online through their fisheries portals.
Kisan Credit Card for fishers
Fishers and fish farmers can also get working capital loans through the Kisan Credit Card at concessional interest rates.
Bottom line
PMMSY offers 40 to 60 percent support for fisheries projects. Speak to your district fisheries officer to plan and apply.
Source / स्रोत: Department of Fisheries, Government of India, PMMSY portal
