Strengthening Fisheries Extension Services

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India is home to diverse fisheries resources, supporting the livelihoods of approximately three crore fishers and fish farmers. The country is the second-largest producer of fish and aquaculture globally, witnessing an 83% increase in fish production since 2013-14, with production reaching 175 lakh tons in 2022-23. Approximately 75% of this production comes from inland fisheries, emphasizing the sector's economic and social significance. Strengthening fisheries and aquaculture extension services is critical to addressing challenges such as species culture, water quality, disease management, and modern technology adoption.

Role of Fisheries Extension Services

Extension services aim to provide essential support to fishers and fish farmers through training, advisory services, and technology dissemination. These services focus on:

• Promoting sustainable practices in fish farming.
• Addressing issues such as seed and feed inputs, disease management, and access to advanced technology.
• Supporting fishers' livelihood enhancement through innovative approaches.

Matsya Seva Kendras (MSKs)

Under the flagship fisheries scheme, Matsya Seva Kendras (MSKs) act as one-stop centers offering extension services through trained aquaculture professionals. Key features include:

• Providing advisory support and capacity-building for fishers, especially for women and vulnerable groups.
• Offering services such as lab testing for water, soil, and disease management.
• Facilitating the adoption of sustainable practices and regenerative conservation techniques. The government funds up to 60% of the operational costs of MSKs, with 102 such centers established nationwide.

Contribution of Sagar Mitras

Sagar Mitras serve as vital links between fishers and government initiatives, especially in coastal and union territory regions. Their roles include:

• Disseminating critical information on daily marine conditions, price trends, and marketing insights.
• Helping fishers adopt sustainable fishing practices and access institutional support for challenges such as climatic impacts.

Challenges and the Way Forward

The fisheries extension system faces challenges such as ethical concerns, environmental sustainability, and the lack of skilled professionals. Addressing these requires:

1. Institutional Convergence: Integration with over 700 Krishi Vigyan Kendras and state-level extension services to create a cohesive support network.
2. Digital Outreach: Platforms like AquaBazaar enable fishers to learn about advanced practices and seed-breeding techniques.
3. Capacity Building: Projects backed by international agencies aim to formalize the sector through digital identities and workforce training.

Conclusion

Strengthening fisheries extension services is essential for improving fishers' productivity and sustainability. By addressing existing challenges and fostering innovation, India can empower its fisheries sector, significantly enhancing its contribution to economic growth and food security.