Gujarat to observe National Fish Farmers Day celebrations in Anand, Ukai

Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India] July 10 (ANI): Gujarat is set to observe National Fish Farmers Day on July 10 in Anand and July 11 in Ukai, according to an official release by the State Information Department.

National Fish Farmers Day is marked annually on July 10 to show solidarity and extend support to the aquaculture industry. The celebrations will include programs designed to educate farmers about Gujarat government schemes and advancements in fisheries technology.

While the state ranks second in marine fish production, it ranks fifth in overall fish production in the country. Over the past four years, Gujarat has maintained an average annual production of about 8.38 lakh metric tonnes. In 2022-23, Gujarat’s marine fish production was 7,03,000 metric tonnes, and inland fish production amounted to 1,94,422 metric tonnes, resulting in a total fish production of 8,97,422 metric tonnes. The projections for 2023-24 indicate a promising increase, with marine fish production expected to reach 7,02,050 metric tonnes and inland fish production projected at 2,13,140 metric tonnes, bringing the total estimate to 9,15,190 metric tonnes.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, the Government of India sanctioned projects worth Rs 286.53 crore for Gujarat in 2022-23 and over Rs 61.55 crore in 2023-24. As a result, the fisheries sector is gaining momentum with increased production and improved livelihoods for farmers.

The state government is taking measures to advance the fisheries sector, including reduced VAT rates on diesel, subsidies on kerosene and petrol purchases, land allocation for shrimp farming, improvements in road and electricity infrastructure, and enhanced port facilities for small farmers. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish four new fishing ports in Madhwad, Navabandar, Veraval-2, and Sutrapada.

Gujarat hosted its first “Global Fisheries Conference 2023” in Ahmedabad on November 21 and 22 last year. A national-level “National Conference on Seaweed Cultivation 2024” was also held on January 27 this year in Koteshwar, Kutch.

“Through these initiatives, Gujarat is not only putting the blue economy on centre stage but also encouraging innovative solutions to improve fish farming production and boost farmers’ income. The launch of key policies and their effective implementation for the betterment of the fisheries sector will continue to remain the top priority of the Gujarat government,” the press note added.