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

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

Synopsis

As the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) reaches its fifth year, its transformative effects are vividly seen in Bihar's Bhagalpur. This flagship initiative is not just a scheme; it’s a lifeline for countless individuals, creating jobs and boosting local economies. Discover how PMMSY is reshaping lives and livelihoods.

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.

Point of View

It is crucial to recognize the positive strides made by the PMMSY in enhancing the livelihoods of fishers and farmers in Bihar. The scheme's emphasis on modernization and sustainable practices demonstrates a commitment to not only economic growth but also environmental responsibility. This initiative serves as a model for similar programs across the nation.
NationPress
10/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana?
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a flagship initiative launched by the Indian government to modernize the fisheries sector, enhance productivity, and double the income of fishers and farmers.
What are the benefits of PMMSY?
PMMSY has significantly improved income, created job opportunities, modernized fish farming practices, and promoted sustainable development within the fisheries sector.
How has PMMSY impacted local economies?
The PMMSY has increased local revenue, created employment opportunities, and empowered farmers and fishers to become self-reliant and economically stronger.
What investment has been made in PMMSY?
The PMMSY is implemented with a total investment of Rs 20,050 crore over a five-year period from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
What is the PM-MKSSY scheme?
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) is a sub-scheme under PMMSY aimed at formalizing the fisheries sector and supporting micro and small enterprises across India.