Sixth Phase of Sagar Parikrama in Andaman & Nicobar Islands Launched

While launching the Phase VI programme of Sagar Parikrama, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Parshottam Rupala emphasised the importance of sustainable fishing practices that not only boost productivity but also minimise environmental repercussions. 

The Sagar Parikrama initiative has been organised along a predetermined marine path that includes coastal states and union territories. The two-day event was held in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Union Territory of India, beginning on May 29 at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture (RGCA) - Marine Product Export Development Authority (MPEDA), Kodiyaghat, Port Blair, to learn about the Tiger Shrimp Domestication Project.

The Sagar Parikrama would be proceeding towards the other locations like Panighat Fish landing center, VK Pur Fish Lending Center, Hutbay, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Islands etc. 

In his remarks, Rupala emphasised the crucial role of fish farmers in meeting rising demand, as well as the invaluable contributions of our fishermen and fish farmers who work diligently to offer a key source of food and nourishment. The Union Minister stated that due to the huge demand of fishermen from all over the country for assistance in improving their livelihood, the Prime Minister established a special department of fisheries, and that investment in the fisheries sector amounted to around Rs 3,681 Cr between 1950 and 2014. Following that, the government proposes programmes such as PMMSY, FIDF, and others with a budget of approximately Rs. 32,000 Cr. for the development of the fisheries sector based on an awareness of the ground realities.

The Minister talked with the attendees, which included fish farmers and fishermen. Many beneficiaries shared their firsthand experiences with Rupala, highlighting their concerns and appreciating the enormous impact that the KCC and PMSSY schemes have made to the lives of fishermen and the fishing community.