Government backs fisheries expansion with ₹336.61 crore released to Uttar Pradesh, while Chandauli strengthens pond-based aquaculture under PMMSY

Key Highlights

• ₹1,294.32 crore worth of fisheries projects approved for Uttar Pradesh under PMMSY
• Central financial assistance of ₹412.30 crore, with ₹336.61 crore released so far
• 10 PMMSY projects implemented in Chandauli district, benefiting 229 fish farmers
• 421 Gram Sabha ponds leased for aquaculture across Chandauli
• Fisheries activities underway in 5 of the district’s 8 reservoirs

News

The Government of India has approved fisheries development projects worth ₹1,294.32 crore for Uttar Pradesh under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), reinforcing its push to expand inland aquaculture and strengthen the state’s fisheries sector.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the projects carry a Central share of ₹412.30 crore, of which ₹336.61 crore has already been released to Uttar Pradesh between 2020-21 and 2026-27.

The ministry highlighted Chandauli district as one of the beneficiaries of the scheme, where 10 fisheries development projects have been implemented under PMMSY, benefiting 229 fish farmers.

The district has also emerged as an important inland aquaculture cluster, with 447 Gram Sabha ponds spread across 427.15 hectares. Of these, 421 ponds, covering 417.24 hectares, have been leased and are currently being utilised for aquaculture activities.

In addition to pond-based farming, fisheries operations are being carried out in five of Chandauli’s eight reservoirs, supporting inland fish production and local livelihoods.

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 continued expansion of inland aquaculture in Uttar Pradesh is expected to strengthen the domestic supply of freshwater fish for hotels, restaurants, catering companies and institutional foodservice operators. Increased production from ponds and reservoirs can improve the availability of locally sourced fish while supporting stable supply chains for the hospitality sector.

As aquaculture expands, food businesses may also benefit from improved access to fresh regional fish varieties, supporting farm-to-table concepts and regional cuisine offerings.

Travel & Tourism Impact

While primarily an agriculture-focused initiative, stronger inland fisheries can indirectly support culinary tourism by promoting local freshwater fish dishes and regional food experiences. As rural tourism gains traction, aquaculture-based communities may also find opportunities to diversify into experiential tourism linked to fisheries and local cuisine.

Why It Matters

The government’s continued investment in fisheries infrastructure under PMMSY is helping expand inland aquaculture across Uttar Pradesh. For the hospitality and foodservice industries, stronger fish production capacity can contribute to a more reliable seafood supply while supporting rural livelihoods and local food ecosystems.