Government says fish output has grown nearly 40% since 2019-20, while ₹2,797 crore has been invested in cold chain and fish marketing infrastructure

Key Highlights

• India’s fish production increased from 141.64 lakh tonnes (2019-20) to 197.75 lakh tonnes (2024-25)
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has been driving fisheries and aquaculture development since 2020
• ₹4,178.30 crore sanctioned for fisheries projects benefiting 1.47 lakh women across India
• ₹2,797 crore approved for cold chain and fish marketing infrastructure
• Infrastructure includes 775 cold storages and ice plants, over 28,000 fish transport units, fish kiosks and retail markets

News

India’s fisheries sector is witnessing steady growth, with the country’s fish production rising to 197.75 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, up from 141.64 lakh tonnes in 2019-20, driven by the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the flagship scheme has played a key role in strengthening fisheries and aquaculture over the past six years through investments in production, infrastructure and market connectivity.

The government also highlighted its focus on inclusive growth, stating that women beneficiaries receive 60% financial assistance under beneficiary-oriented activities. Between 2020-21 and 2025-26, fisheries development projects worth ₹4,178.30 crore have been sanctioned, benefiting more than 1.47 lakh women across States and Union Territories.

To improve post-harvest handling and reduce losses, the Department of Fisheries has also approved ₹2,797 crore under PMMSY and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) for cold chain and marketing infrastructure.

The approved projects include 775 cold storages and ice plants, 28,489 fish transportation units, 1,394 live fish vending units, 6,018 fish kiosks, 117 retail fish markets, and 24 wholesale fish markets, aimed at strengthening seafood distribution across the country.

The information was shared by Union Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Hospitality Industry Impact

The expansion of fish production and seafood infrastructure is expected to improve the availability of fresh seafood for India’s hospitality sector. Hotels, seafood restaurants, cloud kitchens and catering businesses could benefit from a more reliable supply chain, reduced spoilage and improved logistics.

The strengthening of cold storage and refrigerated transport infrastructure is also likely to support better quality seafood deliveries to urban markets, tourist destinations and premium hospitality establishments.

Travel & Tourism Impact

For destinations known for coastal cuisine and seafood tourism, improved fisheries infrastructure can enhance culinary tourism by ensuring consistent availability of fresh local produce. States with strong coastal and inland tourism offerings may see opportunities to promote regional seafood experiences, food festivals and destination dining as part of their tourism strategy.

Why It Matters

With India’s fish production approaching the 200 lakh tonne mark, government investments in production, cold chain and market infrastructure are expected to support the broader foodservice ecosystem while creating opportunities for seafood-focused hospitality businesses, restaurants, hotels and tourism destinations.