The Maharashtra government gives the fishing industry agricultural status, saying that the “initiative will boost production”
Mumbai In a major move, the Maharashtra cabinet granted the fishing industry agricultural status on Tuesday, allowing fishermen to receive the same benefits and exemptions as farmers. Fishermen and fish conservationists who are entitled to water, electricity, and other infrastructure services would profit from the judgment.
The cabinet decision was praised as “historic and revolutionary” by State Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane. 4,83,000 fisherman will benefit, he said.
Given that numerous subsidies and infrastructure facilities would be provided to fisheries players, this move will boost the rural economy, Rane continued.
“The production of fish in the state will rise significantly. Fishermen will now receive subsidies for buying fish seed, feed, paddle-wheel aerators, and air pumps, much as farmers do for seeds, tractors, ploughs, and fertilizers,” the minister announced.
The cabinet decision was praised as “historic and revolutionary” by State Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane.
According to him, the ruling enables aquaculturists and fish farmers to obtain insurance, similar to crop insurance for farmers, to compensate for losses in fish output and seed.
According to him, fisherman will get government assistance packages akin to those given to farmers in the event of natural calamities like droughts or heavy rains.
“Granting fisheries agricultural status will stimulate economic growth in both inland and coastal areas, generate revenue, and offer job possibilities. “Fishermen will receive subsidies on electricity charges since they are now recognized as agricultural farmers,” Rane said.
Rane added that energy will be provided at agricultural prices to fish farmers, fishing development projects, associated companies, and processing facilities.
The minister stated that the fisheries industry plays a major role in the nation’s foreign exchange earnings and the supply of protein-rich food. “Fish farmers will be eligible for Kisan Credit Cards, agricultural-rate loans from banks, and insurance coverage at subsidised agricultural rates,” the minister reported.
Similar to agriculture, Maharashtra’s fisheries industry has the potential to produce a lot of goods and make a lot of money. In order to boost fish production, fishermen will receive benefits like electricity subsidies, Kisan Credit Cards, loans at agricultural rates, discounted insurance, and equipment subsidies,” he continued.
