National Fish Farmer’s Day is celebrated on 10^th July every year to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of fish farmers, aquaculture industry professionals and other stakeholders towards ensuring a sustainable and thriving fisheries sector. National Fish Farmer’s Day 2023 is an opportunity for the entire nation to recognize the immense contributions of fish farmers and their commitment toward sustainable aquaculture. By embracing responsible practices and harnessing the potential of the fisheries sector, we can ensure a prosperous future, enhance food security, and contribute to the overall development of the nation.

NFFD is celebrated to honour and commemorate the contribution of Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and his colleague Dr. K. H. Alikunhi, in Indian fisheries sector who had guided the induced breeding and reproduction in Indian Major Carps by Hypophysation technique, on this day 1957, which eventually lead to a revolution in Inland Aquaculture. The intent of celebrating this day is to recognise the contributions made by fish farmers, aquapreneurs (businesspeople associated in aqua farming sector), and fishermen to the development of the nation’s fisheries sector and to create an ecosystem to collectively think and discuss the ways to sustainably manage our fisheries resources. National Fish Farmer’s Day serves as an important platform to acknowledge the significant role played by fish farmers in meeting the growing demand for fish protein, generating employment opportunities, and contributing to the country's food security. It highlights their dedication and innovation in adopting modern aquaculture techniques, improving fish productivity, and conserving aquatic resources. Over the years, the fisheries sector has witnessed remarkable advancements, driven by scientific research and technological interventions.

On this occasion, various activities such as seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and interactive sessions will be organized across the country to disseminate knowledge, share experiences, and foster collaboration among stakeholders. Experts and professionals from the fisheries sector will provide insights into the latest developments, research findings, and emerging trends in aquaculture.

The Government of India is always at the fore front in transforming the fisheries sector in a holistic way and bringing about an economic upturn and prosperity through the Blue Revolution in the country. The sector envisioned the enhancement of production and productivity, improving quality, increasing domestic fish consumption and export trade, reducing waste which in turn to create self-employment opportunities for unemployed youth. Since 2015, the Government of India has announced cumulative investments to the tune of Rs 38,572 crore. The Integrated Development and Management of Fisheries initiative under the Blue Revolution Scheme, introduced in 2016, with an investment of Rs. 3,000 crore, has played a crucial role in advancing the fisheries sector. In the Union Budget 2018, the Finance Minister announced regarding the setting up of a Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) with a corpus of Rs. 7522.48 Crore for fisheries sector, for fuelling the infrastructure development in fisheries and Aquaculture sector as a whole, both in the marine and inland fisheries to augment fish production. Projects under the FIDF are eligible for loans up to 80% of the estimated or actual project cost with an interest subvention. In 2020, the Prime Minister unveiled the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a scheme to bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of fisheries sector in India” envisaging an overall investment of Rs. 20,050 crore over a period of five years. Finance Minister announced a Sub-scheme under PMMSY with an investment of Rs. 6,000 crores in the Union Budget 2023–24. The primary objective of PMMSY is to enhance fish production to an impressive 22 MMT by 2024–25.

This ambitious program also intends to provide employment opportunities for almost 55 lakh people in the sector. PMMSY is positioned to change the fisheries sector and improve millions of lives by emphasizing sustainable growth and development. The program also emphasizes the incorporation of the latest innovations into fisheries and aquaculture while fostering an environment that is favourable for private sector involvement, the growth of entrepreneurship, the development of business models, the promotion of ease of doing business, innovations, and initiatives like start-ups, incubators, etc.

The Department of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India, is celebrating National Fish Farmer's Day, commemorating the remarkable achievements of the Indian Fisheries sector. This year, marks the nine years of progress and growth in the fisheries industry. In light of this significant milestone, the Department is organizing the 'Summer Meet 2023' and the 'Start-up Conclave' in the beautiful city of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, on 10th - 11th July. The 'Summer Meet 2023' and the 'Start-up Conclave' serve as platforms to highlight the noteworthy accomplishments of the Indian fisheries sector and foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the industry. This event brings together fish farmers, researchers, industry experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and explore future prospects for the sustainable development of fisheries. The 'Start-up Conclave' will provide a unique platform for aspiring entrepreneurs and start-ups to showcase their innovative ideas, products, and technologies in fisheries and aquaculture. This conclave aims to encourage and support new ventures that can contribute to the growth and modernization of the fisheries industry.

Around 10500 fish farmers, aquapreneurs, fisher folks, professionals, officials, and scientists from across the nation are expected to participate in the event. Around 50 stalls will be exhibited during the event, covering various aspects of fish farming, aquaculture, and related technologies. The program will feature the inauguration of the Exhibition on Fisheries Start-Ups/Fish FPOs / Fish Cooperatives, followed by display of Achievements of DoF, Virtual Inauguration of Fisheries Projects supported by DoF, GoI, under both Centrally sponsored scheme beneficiary oriented, Non beneficiary oriented and Central sector scheme. Virtual Interaction with Fishermen/Fisherwomen at the inaugural sites will be held at Fisheries Start-Ups Award Ceremony.

Union Minister and Ministers of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying will deliver keynote addresses, highlighting the progress of the sector and offer valuable insights into the latest trends, best practices, and emerging opportunities in the fisheries sector. Minister of Fisheries and Senior Officers from State Governments across the country will be participating and share their experience and discuss future challenges of fisheries sector and to chalk out way forward.

The Department of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, GoI acknowledges the untiring efforts of fish farmers and fishers across the country, whose dedication and hard work have played a major role in the success of the Indian fisheries sector. This celebration provides an opportunity to recognize their significant contributions and express our gratitude. The entire program will be live streamed to reach out to different stakeholders across the country.

Link: https://youtube.com/@NFDBINDIA

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