On May 23, 2025, the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying convened the Fisheries Secretaries Conference 2025 and a National Workshop on Harnessing Technology and Innovation in Aquaculture in New Delhi. Chaired by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, the event reviewed progress on schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), emphasizing technological advancements and sustainable fisheries development.
Technological Innovations in Fisheries
Drone and Satellite Technology
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi announced a pioneering pilot project on drone technology to transport live fish in challenging terrains, with a 70 kg payload drone under development. He also emphasized the use of satellite technology for fisher safety, resource mapping, biometric identification, and facial recognition. These innovations aim to enhance operational efficiency and safety in the fisheries sector.
Infrastructure and Sustainability
Smart Harbours and Modern Markets
The conference highlighted the need for smart, integrated fishing harbours and modern fish markets aligned with green and blue sustainability principles. Coastal states were urged to adopt mariculture zoning and technologies like ReALCraft for vessel monitoring, aligning with the FAO’s Blue Port initiative. The development of post-harvest infrastructure, such as hygienic fish kiosks, was also emphasized to improve value chain efficiency.
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Drone Technology | Pilot project for 70 kg payload drones to transport live fish |
| Satellite Technology | Enhances fisher safety, resource mapping, and biometric identification |
| Smart Harbours | Aligned with FAO’s Blue Port initiative for sustainability |
| PM-MKSSY | Offers aquaculture insurance and digital access via NFDP |
PM-MKSSY and Financial Inclusion
Supporting Fish Farmers
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) provides aquaculture insurance to mitigate risks for small and marginalized farmers. Through the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP), it ensures seamless access to insurance and promotes sector formalization. Eligible beneficiaries, including SC, ST, and women, receive a 10% additional incentive, with premiums capped at Rs 1 lakh per farmer for intensive systems.
Challenges and Solutions
Enhancing Access and Awareness
The conference addressed challenges like limited institutional credit due to collateral requirements under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme. States were urged to increase NFDP registrations and sensitize financial institutions about modern fisheries practices. Strengthening post-harvest infrastructure and market linkages was also prioritized to ensure fair prices and stable incomes for fishers.
Key Highlights
- The Fisheries Secretaries Conference 2025 was held on May 23, 2025, in New Delhi, chaired by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi.
- Pilot project announced for 70 kg payload drones to transport live fish in difficult terrains.
- Satellite technology to enhance fisher safety and operational efficiency.
- PM-MKSSY offers aquaculture insurance with a 10% incentive for SC, ST, and women beneficiaries.
- States urged to boost NFDP registrations and develop smart harbours for sustainable fisheries.