New Delhi: Every year on July 10, National Fish Farmer’s Day is observed to recognize the immense contributions of fish farmers and their commitment to sustainable aquaculture. The day provides us with an important platform where we can acknowledge the significant role of fish farmers in meeting the growing demand for fish protein, generating job opportunities, and contributing to the food security of the country.
Why is the National Fish Farmer’s Day celebrated on this day?
National Fish Famer’s Day is celebrated on July 10 to honour Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and his colleague Dr. K. H. Alikunhi’s contributions. Both of them massively led to the benefit of the fisheries sector of the country by guiding induced breeding and reproduction in Indian Major Carps by Hypophysation technique on July 10, 1957. It revolutionised Inland Aquaculture and this day recognises the contribution of fish farmers, aquapreneurs (those engaged in the business of the aqua farming sector), and fishermen to the fisheries sector’s development and to create an ecosystem to collectively look for ways that can sustainably manage the fisheries resources of this country.
National Fish Famer’s Day gives us a platform not only to recognise the significant role of fish farmers in meeting the increasing demand for fish protein and creating job opportunities but also to highlight the dedication of those farmers who have adopted modern aquaculture techniques, improved the productivity of fish and are protecting aquatic resources. Over the years, the fisheries sector has grown by leaps and bounds, driven by technological interventions and scientific research. Also, the day draws our attention to change the way the country manages fisheries resources to ensure healthy ecosystems and sustainable stocks.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
While speaking about fish farmers, mention must be made of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The central government has implemented PPMMSY for five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25. Its objectives are to harness fisheries, increase the production of fish, strengthen and modernise the value chain, double the income of fish farmers increase contribution to Agriculture GDP and exports, and provide the fish farmers with social, physical, and financial security.
Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
Mention must be also made of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) which the government created in 2018-19. Its total fund size was Rs 7522.48 crore and it was extended for another 3 years upto 2025-26 within the already approved fund size. In February 2024, the Union Cabinet announced budgetary support of Rs 939.48 crore. This will help to develop several fisheries infrastructures like fishing harbours, cold storage, fish landing centres, fish transport facilities, modern fish markets, integrated cold chains, Hatcheries, aquaculture development etc.
National Fish Famer’s Day is celebrated on July 10 to honour Professor Dr Hiralal Chaudhury and his colleague Dr K. H. Alikunhi’s contributions and to draw attention on fish farmers. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
