Under PMMSY, Maharashtra has received approvals for a wide range of fisheries development activities. These include the establishment of fish brood banks and hatcheries to ensure the availability of quality fish and prawn seed. Advanced aquaculture practices such as cage culture in reservoirs, recirculatory aquaculture systems, and biofloc units are also being promoted.
The scheme supports deep-sea fishing vessels, upgradation of existing boats for export competitiveness, and the development of integrated modern fish landing centres. State-of-the-art wholesale fish markets, ice plants, cold storage facilities, and improved transportation infrastructure are further strengthening the fisheries value chain.
Livelihood Support and Alternative Income Opportunities
Beyond core fishing activities, PMMSY is encouraging diversification of income sources for fishing communities. Approved initiatives include ornamental fish rearing, seaweed cultivation, recreational fisheries, fish kiosks, and value-added fish processing enterprises.
Livelihood support is also provided during fishing ban periods, while artificial reefs are being installed along the coast to promote sustainable resource management and enhance fish stocks.
District-Level Impact Across Maharashtra
The Government of Maharashtra has informed that fisheries and aquaculture development is progressing through PMMSY and district planning schemes. In districts such as Solapur, Pune, Satara, Sangli, Dharashiv, and Ahilyanagar, a total of 1,138 projects have been sanctioned with a combined cost of ₹207.72 crore.
Additionally, district planning schemes have provided financial assistance of ₹8.99 crore to over 8,100 beneficiaries in Solapur and surrounding regions. To meet short-term credit needs, 575 Kisan Credit Cards have also been issued to fishers and fish farmers.
Capacity Building and Skill Development
The Department of Fisheries is supporting skill development through need-based training programmes conducted by the National Fisheries Development Board. Between 2023–24 and 2025–26, eleven capacity-building programmes were organised in Maharashtra, benefiting 1,367 participants.
These programmes focus on modern aquaculture techniques, fish health management, post-harvest handling, and market integration, enabling fishers to adopt best practices and improve productivity.
Sustainable Inland and Reservoir Fisheries
To address challenges in inland and reservoir fisheries, PMMSY supports interventions such as fish ranching, fingerling stocking, and integrated reservoir development. The state has issued policy guidelines to ensure optimal stocking and sustainable exploitation of inland water bodies.
ICAR institutes are supporting these efforts through research on species diversification, genetic improvement, responsible fishing practices, and value addition. Outreach and extension activities are helping fishers connect better with markets and improve incomes.
Government’s Commitment to Fisheries Growth
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, informed the Lok Sabha that the Centre is working closely with state governments to strengthen fisheries infrastructure and double fishers’ incomes. Maharashtra’s progress under PMMSY reflects the government’s broader vision of sustainable, inclusive growth in the fisheries sector.
With continued investment, technology infusion, and skill development, Maharashtra is emerging as a key contributor to India’s fisheries and aquaculture economy.