The Union ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying has earmarked Rs 310 crore, with a central contribution of Rs 120 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for the comprehensive advancement of fisheries in Goa. Responding to queries raised by MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade during the recent Rajya Sabha session, the Union ministry articulated a comprehensive strategy aimed at bolstering the fisheries sector’s growth in Goa.
The financial support encompasses a wide array of initiatives, including support for traditional fishermen, provision of communication or tracking devices, sea-safety kits, insurance coverage, acquisition of deep-sea fishing vessels, alternative livelihood opportunities, and comprehensive training and skill development initiatives. Goa has reported a fish productivity of 3-4 tonnes/hectare. Under the flagship scheme of PMMSY, Goa has witnessed approvals totalling to Rs 107.9 crore over the past three years.
These approvals encompass a diverse spectrum of developmental projects, ranging from the construction of new ponds and technology-infused high-income-generating activities to the installation of cages, promotion of ornamental fisheries, establishment of fish feed mills, and procurement of deep-sea fishing vessels.