The Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Meet held at the Brilliant Convention Centre in Indore brought together ministers, fisheries experts, and officials from across the country. The primary objective of the meet was to promote inland fisheries in landlocked states that do not have access to the sea. Delegates from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and other inland states participated in the event.
The inaugural session, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh stated that India has emerged as the second-largest fish-producing country in the world. Over the last 10 years, fish production in India has increased from 6.1 million tonnes to 14.7 million tonnes. Similarly, exports have doubled from ₹30,000 crore to ₹60,000 crore.
He emphasized that fish farming is a profitable venture that can significantly multiply farmers' incomes. The Minister also stressed the need to organize unorganized fishermen, strengthen fisheries cooperative societies, and ensure that fishers benefit from schemes like the Kisan Credit Card and various Central and State Government initiatives. He urged states to develop comprehensive action plans and provide free training to fish farmers through the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).
Minister of State Shri S.P. Singh Baghel highlighted the importance of promoting fisheries, poultry, and animal husbandry to double farmers’ income. He expressed concern over the disappearance of small rivers across the country and suggested increasing the number of 'Amrit Sarovars' (water reservoirs) in every district to support fish farming.
He also pointed out that nearly 30 million people in India are engaged in fishery activities and that the country contributes 8% to the world’s total fish production. The Minister emphasized the need to improve educational facilities for the children of fisherfolk.
Madhya Pradesh’s Minister of State for Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare (Independent Charge), Shri Narayan Singh Panwar, stated that the state government is making consistent efforts to enhance fish production and productivity. A major step in this direction is the establishment of the Halali Cluster in Bhopal.
He also shared details about various welfare schemes for fishermen, including the Mukhyamantri Meenakshi Yojana, Critical Illness Assistance Scheme, and Education Promotion Scheme.
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