Centre Clears ₹1,298 Crore Fisheries Projects for Odisha Under PMMSY
Harbours, cold storage, fisher welfare and infrastructure get major boost
Bhubaneswar: The Central Government has approved fisheries and aquaculture development projects worth ₹1,298.25 crore for Odisha under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme component of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The approval marks a major step towards strengthening the state’s fisheries sector, improving infrastructure, and supporting fisher livelihoods.
The information was shared by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, also known as Lallan Singh, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.
Big Push for Fisheries Development in Odisha
According to the Union Minister, the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, has approved multiple proposals submitted by the Odisha government for overall fisheries and aquaculture development. The approved projects include both infrastructure creation and welfare measures for fishing communities.
The total approved cost of ₹1,298.25 crore covers the development of one fishing harbour, 38 ice plants and cold storage units, livelihood support for around 68,000 fisher families, and insurance coverage for more than 53.9 lakh fishers in the state. On average, about 1.08 lakh fishers receive insurance benefits every year.
Focus on Fisher Livelihood and Welfare
The PMMSY projects aim to improve income security and working conditions for fishers. Livelihood support under the scheme will help fisher families access better facilities, modern equipment, and improved market linkages.
Insurance coverage under PMMSY provides financial protection to fishers against risks such as accidents and natural disasters. The large number of beneficiaries highlights the scheme’s importance in safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Odisha’s fishing communities.
State Identifies Beneficiaries
The Union Minister clarified that the responsibility of identifying eligible beneficiaries lies with the Odisha government. The state government ensures that PMMSY benefits reach fishers and aquaculture stakeholders across various districts.
This decentralised approach helps target genuine beneficiaries and ensures better implementation of the scheme at the ground level.
Climate-Resilient Coastal Villages
Under PMMSY, the central government is also developing Climate Resilient Coastal Fishermen Villages to help fishing communities adapt to climate change and natural disasters. At present, 100 coastal fisher villages across the country have been identified for development under this component.
These villages will receive support for infrastructure, housing, sanitation, and livelihood diversification to improve resilience against cyclones, floods, and sea-level rise.
Cold Chain and Market Infrastructure Boost
A key focus of PMMSY is the creation of a strong cold chain network to reduce post-harvest losses and improve fish quality. Over the last five financial years, from 2020–21 to 2024–25, the central government has approved a large number of projects under this component.
These include 734 cold storages and ice plants to support fish preservation. In addition, 27,301 fish transportation units have been approved to improve last-mile connectivity and market access.
The approved transport units include motorcycles with ice boxes, bicycles with ice boxes, auto-rickshaws, live fish vending units, insulated trucks, and refrigerated trucks. These facilities help fishers and vendors transport fish safely while maintaining quality.
Support for Fish Markets and Retail
The PMMSY also supports the development of fish marketing infrastructure. Approvals have been given for 6,410 fish kiosks, 202 retail fish markets, and 21 wholesale fish markets. These facilities help improve hygiene, pricing, and consumer access to fresh fish.
Strengthening Odisha’s Fisheries Economy
With central approvals worth over ₹1,298 crore, Odisha’s fisheries sector is set to receive a major boost. The investments are expected to improve infrastructure, reduce losses, increase fisher incomes, and create new employment opportunities.
The PMMSY support will also help Odisha strengthen its position as a leading fisheries and aquaculture state while ensuring sustainable growth and better living standards for fishing communities.
