Central Government Initiative Empowering Fishermen in Bihar Towards Self-Sufficiency
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Patna, Dec 8 (NationPress) The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), initiated by the Central government, is playing a vital role in assisting individuals involved in the fisheries sector to establish their own ventures and contribute to the creation of both direct and indirect employment opportunities.
The objective is to enhance fish production and increase per capita consumption by revitalizing the supply chain.
This initiative offers financial assistance and training to fishermen aimed at improving their aquaculture enterprises.
In Bihar, this program is generating job opportunities for the youth and is also paving the way for a new era of self-reliance in rural communities.
A beneficiary of PMMSY, Uday Kumar from Nalanda district, shared his success story under the initiative.
"We received training through the PMMSY scheme, which allowed us to embark on fish farming. Previously, we only utilized our own land, but now we have expanded our operations by leasing additional land," he explained.
He informed IANS that this program has enabled him to achieve an annual income ranging from Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 lakh. He mentioned that he initially received Rs 60,000 in support under the scheme, which he used to kickstart his fish farming venture.
Uday and his fellow fishermen believe that the scheme has instigated a revolution in the fisheries sector, benefiting many participants.
Shivanandan Prasad, Director of the Bihar State Matsyajeevi Cooperative Federation, stated to IANS that the initiative is vastly advantageous for fishermen.
"Subsidies of up to 50 percent are available for constructing ponds, renovating existing ponds, and purchasing fish farming supplies such as fish food, medications, and aerator machines. Additionally, technical resources like motor pumps are being supplied," he said.
He elaborated that training is being extended to thousands of farmers in Nalanda district, leading to improved nourishment for multiple families and enhanced financial conditions.
"Even those lacking their own capital can take advantage of the scheme to start their own businesses. The establishment of a dedicated ministry for fisheries has significantly bolstered the industry," he added.
Both Shivanandan Prasad and Uday Kumar expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiating transformative changes in the lives of the impoverished and unemployed.
"The PMMSY scheme is a major advancement toward increasing the income of fish farmers and fostering their self-sufficiency," they concluded.
