Think of a plan that was not only to increase the production of the fishes, but to revolutionize the whole fisheries sector of India. It is the vision of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
This is an ambitious mission initiated by the Department of Fisheries and is sweeping opportunities to fishers, fish farmers as well as entrepreneurs. In case you are engaged in the fisheries industry, this guide will take you through all you should know about PMMSY including its main advantages as well as the process of implementation starting with step-by-step procedure.
What is the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)?
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is a prime programme that is designed to transform the fisheries sector in India. Its essence aims at a sustainable ecological, economic and inclusive development.
PMMSY which has invested hugely in the form of ₹20,050 crore is spearheading a Blue Revolution in all states and union territories. It is a five-year plan, which is operational in the financial year 2020-21 to 2024-25. The 2023-24 budget, in another major move, has a new sub-scheme of another 6,000 crore to continue assisting fish vendors, micro-enterprises, and enhancing market efficiencies.
Key Objectives of PMMSY
The scheme has a firm background of clear objectives:
- To exploit the fisheries industry in a sustainable manner.
- To modernise and enhance the whole value chain, pond to plate.
- To make fishers and fish farmers double their incomes.
- To create large-scale jobs- 55 lakh jobs are the target.
- To increase the revenue of fish export in India to ₹100,000 crores.
- To guarantee social and economic security to fishing communities.
Who is Eligible for PMMSY?
The scheme is a broad net in an attempt to take care of a variety of stakeholders. You may be eligible when you fall into any of the following categories:
- Individuals: Active fishers, fish farmers, fish workers, and vendors.
- Groups & Cooperatives: Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), Fisheries Cooperatives, and Federations.
- Organisations: Fish Farmers Producer Organisations (FFPOs), Fisheries Development Corporations, and State Fisheries Development Boards.
- Enterprises: Private firms, entrepreneurs, and micro or small enterprises in the fisheries sector.
- Government Entities: State/UT Governments and their agencies.
- Priority Groups: Special focus is given to applicants from SC/ST communities, women, and differently-abled persons.
Attractive Benefits and Support Under the Scheme
PMMSY can provide a total package of financial support to empower the fisheries sector:
- Infrastructure Development: Have assistance to develop and modernise fishing harbours, landing centres, fish markets and feed plants.
- Direct Support for Farmers: Financial aid for constructing new ponds, cages, hatcheries, and installing essential equipment like aeration systems.
- Post Harvest Management Boost: The aid will be with the aim of establishing cold storage chains, ice plant and modern fish processing to minimize the waste and enhance quality.
- Credit Linked Subsidies: The availability of subsidised loans to enable fish farming to become a more viable and profitable business venture.
- Marketing & Export Promotion: Assistance in creating branding, packaging and marketing infrastructure to enable the Indian fish products to enter international markets.
How to Apply for the PMMSY Scheme
It is primarily offline process of application and it will vary with the component of the scheme you are applying.
1. For the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) Component
This is for most individual beneficiaries and groups.
- Step 1: Prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) or a Self-Contained Proposal as per the PMMSY guidelines.
- Step 2: Submit this proposal to the District Fisheries Officer in your home district or the district where you plan to carry out the activity.
2. For the Central Sector Scheme (CS) Component
This typically involves larger projects.
- Step 1: Prepare your project proposal according to the requirements.
- Step 2: Submit it directly to the Department of Fisheries in New Delhi at the following address:The Secretary
Department of Fisheries
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Room No. 221, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi – 110 001
Email: secy-fisheries@gov.in
Important Note: Before starting your application, we highly recommend consulting with your local District Fisheries Officer. They can provide the most accurate, up-to-date guidance on the specific requirements for your project.
Documents Required for Application
While the exact list may vary, you will typically need the following:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Bank Account Details (for direct benefit transfer)
- Business Registration Certificate (for organisations/companies)
- Detailed Project Report (DPR)
- Land Documents (e.g., lease agreement, ownership papers, or a No Objection Certificate from the landowner)
- Partnership Deed or Memorandum of Association (for companies)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main goal of PMMSY?
The goal of PMMSY is to establish a sustainable and modern fisheries industry, substantially enhance fish production, improve fishers incomes and fish exports of India.
What is the duration of the PMMSY scheme?
The scheme is operational for five years, from the financial year 2020-21 to 2024-25.
Can I get financial assistance to purchase land under PMMSY?
No, the plan does not offer financial support in the acquisition of land. It will provide support on development and infrastructure on the land that is already leased or owned.
If my land is leased, how many years of lease are required?
The lease period is subject to change depending on the project. You should enquire of the District Fisheries Officer as to the particular demand of your activity, but a medium or a long-term lease is to be anticipated.
Can I apply for the same project under both PMMSY and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)?
No, there is no allowance of doubling funding on the same project constituent. You must choose one scheme.
Ready to dive in? Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is the golden chance in the expansion of business and investment in the Blue Revolution of India. The first thing you need to do is to contact your local District Fisheries Department to initiate the process.
