Startups Essential for Job Creation and Fisheries Growth: Minister

Synopsis
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the vital role of startups in job creation and the fisheries sector's advancement, emphasizing government support for these initiatives during a recent event in Hyderabad.
Key Takeaways
- Startups are critical for youth employment.
- The government is committed to supporting startups.
- New technologies can enhance the fisheries sector.
- Financial incentives are available through the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0.
- Government schemes can aid startups in their development.
New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) Startups play a crucial role in job creation, especially for the youth, and the government is dedicated to assisting these ventures in every possible manner, stated Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh.
Singh emphasized the significance of startups for the growth of the fisheries sector and their contribution to the Indian economy.
At an event held in Hyderabad, he called on startups to engage in areas like value addition to boost exports, implement advanced technology solutions, develop the islands of Andaman and Nicobar as well as Lakshadweep to tap into tuna potential, and enhance vessels for deep-sea fishing with onboard processing units.
Singh also introduced the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) Mobile Application, created under PM-MKSSY. This app, now on the Google Play Store, offers a user-friendly interface for startups to access various modules and benefits of schemes.
Moreover, the Union Minister announced the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0, which allocates Rs 1 crore to foster technological advancements in fisheries and related sectors.
Ten outstanding startups will be awarded financial incentives and incubation support to create innovative solutions aimed at improving production, efficiency, and sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture.
He encouraged startups to take part in the Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge 2.0, designed to promote healthy competition and stimulate technical innovations in the industry.
Additionally, Singh urged startups to utilize government schemes such as the Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) to enhance their growth and advancement.
During the event, the Union Minister presented ‘Entrepreneur Model’ approvals under PMMSY to eight selected fisheries startups/entrepreneurs/FFPOs, with a total project cost of Rs 33.46 crore, recognizing their innovative projects in aquaculture, modernizing the value chain, and promoting sustainable fisheries.