Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Byndoor

Byndoor, Dec 11: Member of Parliament B Y Raghavendra has highlighted efforts to effectively implement the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Shivamogga and Udupi districts. He raised the matter during the winter session, urging the central ministry of fisheries, animal husbandry, and dairying to enhance sustainable fisheries development, productivity, and infrastructure, thereby doubling farmers' incomes.

According to the ministry's response, Karnataka has been allocated a total of Rs 1,056.34 crore for the period from 2020-21 to 2024-25. Of this, Shivamogga district has received Rs 1.79 crore for projects such as the construction of new fish farming ponds, establishment of fish seed rearing centers, ornamental fish sales outlets, ornamental fish breeding units, and procurement of insulated vehicles and two-wheelers. This assistance has benefited 142 fishermen, significantly increasing their incomes.

Similarly, Udupi district has received Rs 17.43 crore under the scheme. The funds have been utilized for constructing fish ponds, advanced fish production units (Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems - RAS), cold storage, ice plant facilities, and modernizing ice units. Additionally, support has been provided for mollusk and oyster farming, as well as purchasing tricycles and insulated vehicles for fish sales and transportation. A total of 28,616 beneficiaries in Udupi district have availed the benefits of these initiatives, marking a significant contribution to the development of fisheries in the region.

MP B Y Raghavendra stated in a release that both central and state government schemes would continue to focus on the welfare and development of fishermen in the district and the state. Efforts will also be made to enhance basic infrastructure under fisheries to further support the community.