Budget 2026-27 initiative aims to expand aquaculture, strengthen fisheries infrastructure and create new livelihood opportunities across India’s reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars.

Key Highlights

• Government to develop 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars under Union Budget 2026-27.
• 351 reservoirs and 100 Amrit Sarovars identified across multiple states.
• Initiative focuses on fish production, cold-chain infrastructure, hatcheries and value addition.
• Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and fisheries cooperatives to play a key role.
• Projects will be implemented under PMMSY based on Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) submitted by states.

Government Unveils Integrated Fisheries Development Plan for 500 Reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars

New Delhi, July 28: The Government of India has launched an ambitious initiative to develop fisheries and aquaculture across 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars, a key announcement under the Union Budget 2026-27, aimed at unlocking inland fisheries potential, generating rural livelihoods and strengthening India’s blue economy.

The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, said the programme will support integrated fisheries development through infrastructure creation, modern aquaculture practices and community participation across selected water bodies.

Focus on Fisheries Infrastructure and Value Addition

The initiative will support a range of fisheries development activities, including:

• Establishment of fish hatcheries for quality seed production.
• Promotion of cage and pen culture in reservoirs.
• Composite fish culture and integrated fish farming in Amrit Sarovars.
• Distribution of boats and fishing nets to reservoir fishers.
• Development of fish feed mills, cold storages and ice plants.
• Creation of fish kiosks, retail fish markets and transport vehicles.
• Setting up fish processing and value-addition units.

The government said these interventions are designed to improve fish production, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the fisheries value chain.

351 Reservoirs and 100 Amrit Sarovars Identified

The Department of Fisheries has selected water bodies in consultation with states and Union Territories, considering perennial water availability and fisheries potential.

Among the major allocations:

• Jharkhand: 41 reservoirs.
• Maharashtra: 34 reservoirs.
• Kerala: 28 reservoirs.
• Chhattisgarh: 27 reservoirs.
• Telangana: 27 reservoirs.
• Odisha: 25 reservoirs.
• Madhya Pradesh: 22 reservoirs.
• Uttar Pradesh: 19 reservoirs.
• Tamil Nadu: 10 reservoirs and 6 Amrit Sarovars.

In Chhattisgarh, 27 reservoirs have been selected, including Kosardeda Reservoir in Bastar constituency, alongside five Amrit Sarovars.

Women and Fish Farmer Organisations to Drive Implementation

A key feature of the programme is the participation of:

• Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
• Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
• Fisheries cooperatives.

The Centre said both new and existing organisations will be supported to manage fisheries activities, improve market access and enhance incomes for fishing communities.

Funding Through PMMSY

The integrated development programme will be implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

Investment levels will depend on Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) submitted by states and Union Territories, while funding patterns and unit costs will follow existing PMMSY guidelines.

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Impact

The development of reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars has the potential to extend beyond fisheries by creating opportunities for rural tourism, eco-tourism and culinary tourism. Improved fisheries infrastructure can ensure a more reliable supply of freshwater fish to hotels, restaurants and resorts, particularly in inland tourism destinations.

Cold-chain facilities, fish retail markets and value-addition units are expected to strengthen regional food supply networks, benefiting hospitality businesses that rely on fresh, locally sourced seafood.

The initiative could also encourage destination development around reservoir ecosystems through recreational fishing, boating, community-based tourism and local food experiences, supporting tourism-driven economic growth while creating additional income opportunities for rural communities.