The Odisha state Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved the Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana (MMKY), a transformative scheme aimed at boosting the fisheries sector. With a massive budget of ₹2,239 crore, the initiative will be implemented over five years, from 2024-25 to 2028-29.
Objective and Coverage:
The MMKY aims to provide comprehensive support to the state’s fishing community, enhancing livelihoods, promoting sustainable fisheries, and ensuring economic growth. The scheme will benefit an estimated 14 lakh individuals, including:
- 6.67 lakh fishers, who are directly involved in fishing activities.
- 7.32 lakh members of women’s self-help groups (WSHGs), empowering women to play a larger role in the fisheries value chain.
Scope of the Scheme:
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja outlined that the scheme comprises 17 sub-schemes, each tailored to address specific challenges and opportunities within the fisheries sector. These sub-schemes are expected to cover areas such as:
- Infrastructure development, including the construction and modernization of fishing harbors, landing centers, and cold storage facilities.
- Financial support and subsidies for the acquisition of modern fishing equipment and boats.
- Skill development programs to train fishers and WSHG members in advanced aquaculture techniques and value addition.
- Welfare measures like insurance coverage, health benefits, and pension schemes for fishers and their families.
- Conservation efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine and inland ecosystems.
Expected Impact:
The MMKY is projected to drive economic growth by increasing fish production, improving the income of fishing communities, and creating new employment opportunities. It will also empower women through self-help groups, encouraging their active participation in the fisheries sector.
By addressing critical gaps in infrastructure, technology, and welfare, the initiative aligns with Odisha’s broader vision of achieving sustainability and self-reliance in fisheries.
Government’s Commitment:
This flagship scheme reflects the government’s commitment to uplift marginalized communities and ensure that the fisheries sector remains a vital contributor to the state’s economy. It also reinforces the state’s focus on achieving inclusive growth by supporting both traditional fishers and emerging entrepreneurs in the sector.
The Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana is expected to become a model initiative, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate in promoting sustainable and equitable development in the fisheries industry.
