Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 30: India’s fisheries sector is moving beyond catch volumes toward value and technology. Public investment and modern logistics are powering this steady transformation. The focus now rests on cutting post-harvest losses and strengthening processing. Wider market access for small producers is another key goal.
Odisha has emerged as a frontrunner in this national shift. The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department is scaling up its efforts. The drive is led by FARD Secretary Prem Chandra Chaudhary. It draws direction from the Viksit Odisha 2036 Vision of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The state is expanding inland, marine and reservoir fisheries in a planned manner. The aim is higher production, better farm incomes and stronger seafood exports.
Odisha’s efforts dovetail with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. State funded schemes are adding to the push on the ground. Together, they are building cold chains, hygienic retail outlets and feed mills. Modern fish landing facilities are also coming up at key centres. Reservoir cage culture and deep sea fishing have been marked as strategic priorities. Traditional fishermen are receiving safety gear to work with greater security. Aquaculture productivity is being raised across all 30 districts of the state.
Hygienic, consumer friendly fish retail is a central plank of the plan. The Odisha Fisheries Cooperative Corporation, or FISHFED, is leading this effort. It is expanding its Chilika Fresh kiosks under a modern leasing model. These outlets offer quality assured fish and seafood in major cities. Mobile vending units and Fish on Wheels vans are widening consumer reach. Upgraded transport vehicles keep the catch fresh from landing site to plate.
Inclusive growth remains at the heart of Odisha’s fisheries model. Primary Fishery Cooperative Societies are being strengthened across the state. Dedicated Fisheries Farmer Producer Organisations are also taking shape. Long term leasing of Gram Panchayat tanks has opened new doors for women. Women Self Help Groups are now practising scientific fish farming statewide. Women-led micro enterprises are active in drying, smoking and pickling fish. They also handle packaging and supply to nutrition programmes.
Technology is another pillar of the state’s fisheries strategy. Precision aquaculture and environmental monitoring are gaining ground among farmers. The Fisher Friend Mobile Application brings digital advisory services to fishers. Special seed stocking drives for high value species are also under way. These steps strengthen Odisha’s standing as a leading maritime state. They also place it at the forefront of India’s sustainable fisheries transformation.
