How has PMMSY impacted Bihar's job market and economy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PMMSY is transforming the fisheries sector in India.
- It aims to double the income of fishers and farmers.
- The initiative focuses on modernizing practices and promoting sustainability.
- It has created numerous job opportunities in rural areas.
- The scheme supports long-term food security and economic empowerment.
Bhagalpur (Bihar), Sep 10 (NationPress) As the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) celebrates its fifth anniversary on Wednesday, the scheme’s influence is profoundly felt across the country — especially in Bhagalpur, Bihar. Initiated on September 10, 2020, this flagship program has revolutionized fisheries, enhancing income, employment, and modernization.
Among the numerous success stories is Amit Kaushik, a Bhagalpur resident whose life has dramatically improved thanks to PMMSY support.
“In 2017, my net worth was minimal,” Kaushik shared with IANS, stating that after obtaining a low-interest loan through PMMSY, he embraced modern fish farming methods. Today, his net worth has reached Rs 3.10 crore. My income has not only surged, but I also provide jobs to 10 individuals — six skilled and four unskilled workers. This scheme has significantly uplifted the lives of farmers,” he remarked.
The PMMSY was introduced to modernize fish farming and double the income of fishers and farmers. It emphasizes enhancing productivity, quality, and infrastructure while promoting environmentally sustainable practices and improving post-harvest management.
District Fisheries Officer Krishna Kanhaiya echoed these insights, underscoring the broader implications of the scheme.
“PMMSY has bolstered local revenue, generated job opportunities, and improved inter-state fish supply from Bhagalpur. The initiative is empowering farmers to become self-sufficient and economically strong,” he noted to IANS.
In the past five years, PMMSY has heralded a new chapter for fish farming in India. It is now perceived not merely as a traditional occupation, but as a vibrant avenue for employment and prosperity, especially in rural communities.
Executed by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, PMMSY aims to bridge significant gaps within the fisheries sector — from production and processing to marketing and infrastructure. The initiative is set to unfold over a five-year timeline (2020-21 to 2024-25) with a cumulative investment of Rs 20,050 crore.
Recognizing the increasing significance of inland fisheries and aquaculture, PMMSY also endorses programs to guarantee long-term food security and enhance the value chain.
Moreover, the government has introduced a Central Sector Sub-scheme, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), under the ambit of PMMSY.
With over Rs 6,000 crore allocated from FY 2023-24 to 2026-27, this scheme aims to formalize the fisheries sector and assist micro and small enterprises across all states and Union Territories of the nation.