On the second day of Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX, Shri Parshottam Rupala, along with Dr L Murugan, Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, continued their visit to various locations, engaging with fishermen and addressing the challenges faced by them. The day’s program started at Tharangambadi Fish Landing Centre, where the ministers were warmly welcomed by fishermen and women.
Shri Parshottam Rupala addressed the challenges faced by fishermen and emphasized the steps that the government is taking to improve their livelihoods. He highlighted the establishment of a separate Department of Fisheries due to the high demand from fishermen across the country. An investment of over Rs 30,000 crore has been made in the fisheries sector for development. The minister appreciated the contribution of villagers in the fisheries sector and discussed the efforts to eliminate critical gaps in the fisheries value chain.
He also mentioned the pre-Saturation Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX conducted from October 30, 2023, to October 6, 2023, covering 11 districts in Tamil Nadu and 2 districts in Puducherry. The campaign focused on Kisan Credit Card (KCC), Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). Various outreach activities were carried out during the campaign, benefiting thousands of fishermen, fish farmers, and fisher societies.
Dr L Murugan highlighted Tamil Nadu’s potential in marine fisheries and its leadership in appropriate marine fishing regulations, hygiene, and sanitation in marine fish landings, and technology infusion.
Sagar Parikrama aims to “fish for a better tomorrow,” focusing on the intersection of livelihood and sustainability. It is a significant outreach initiative led by Shri Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. The initiative involves meeting fishers at their doorsteps, understanding their difficulties, encouraging sustainable fishing practices, and ensuring that government initiatives reach the last mile.
The ongoing Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX has seen interactions with fishermen, distribution of Kisan Credit Cards, and addressing the concerns of the fishing community. The program covers various locations in Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry, fostering direct communication between policymakers and the people affected by policies.