Context:

• Fisheries Startup Conclave 2.0 was organized on March 8, 2025, in Hyderabad, Telangana.
• This event was conducted under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
• The primary objective of this conclave was to promote innovation and startups in the fisheries sector, leading to increased employment and production.

Launch of National Fisheries Digital Platform and Startup Grand Challenge 2.0

• During the event, Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) mobile application under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PM-MKSSY).
• This app is available on Google Play Store and provides a user-friendly interface for startups to access various modules and benefits of government schemes.

Inauguration of Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0

• The Union Minister also launched the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0 with a funding allocation of ₹1 crore to promote technological innovations in the fisheries and allied sectors.
• Under this initiative, ten winning startups will receive financial assistance and incubation support to develop innovative solutions for enhancing production, efficiency, and sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture.

Stakeholders and Participation

Government Bodies:

• Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying
• Relevant research and development institutions (e.g., ICAR)
• National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)

Entrepreneurs and Startups:

• Young entrepreneurs bringing innovation to the fisheries sector
• Tech and innovation-focused startups aiming to transform the traditional fishing industry

Community and Beneficiaries:

• Fishermen, fish farmers, traders, and processors
• Significant for economic empowerment in rural areas

Fisheries in India

• India’s Role in Global Fisheries Sector
• India holds a significant position in global fisheries and is among the top fish-producing countries worldwide.

Key Statistics:

• Second-largest fish producer globally, contributing 8% of global fish production.
• Second-largest aquaculture producer, with a significant contribution to global seafood exports.
• Top producer of shrimp and third in capture fisheries.
• Andhra Pradesh is the leading fish-producing state in India, followed by West Bengal.
• Inland fisheries contribute over 75% to the total fish production in India.

Types of Fisheries in India

1. Marine Fisheries

• Involves fishing in oceans, coastal areas, gulf regions, and backwaters.
• Key fish species: Hilsa, Sardine, Mackerel, Tuna, Shrimp, and Crab.
• Major marine fishing states: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and West Bengal.

2. Inland Fisheries

• Includes fishing in rivers, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and canals.
• Key fish species: Catla, Rohu, Mrigal, Tilapia, Singhi, and Magur.
• Major states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

3. Aquaculture

• Involves fish farming using scientific techniques in ponds, reservoirs, and artificial water bodies.
• Two types of aquaculture:
  • Freshwater Aquaculture – Includes fish like Shrimp, Rohu, and Catla.
  • Brackish Water Aquaculture – Mainly involves shrimp farming.

Government Initiatives & Schemes for Sustainable Fisheries

1. Blue Revolution Scheme

Launched: FY 2015-16

Objectives:

• Enhance fish production and productivity.
• Modernize and sustain fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
•  Provide financial and technical support to fish farmers.

2. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

Launched: May 2020

Objectives:

• Bring comprehensive reforms in the Indian fisheries sector.
• Achieve 22 million tons of fish production by 2024-25.
• Generate employment for 2.8 crore people associated with fisheries.
• Promote exports of fish and marine products.

3. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)

Launched: 2018-19

Objectives:

• Develop infrastructure for both marine and inland fisheries.
• Provide financial assistance to fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and cooperatives.

4. ICAR - Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE): Center of Excellence

Established: 1961

Objectives:

• Promote higher education and research in fisheries.
• Conduct research on sustainable fisheries, aquatic nutrition, and fish health.
• Provide scientific knowledge and technical expertise to improve fish production methods and reduce waste.

Fisheries-Related Information