Centre reviews PMMSY implementation as Maharashtra advances fisheries infrastructure, cold chain and employment generation

Key Highlights

• ₹1,601.44 crore worth of fisheries projects approved for Maharashtra under PMMSY
• Central assistance of ₹593.33 crore, with ₹419.02 crore released so far
• Maharashtra has utilised ₹408.77 crore of the released Central funds
• 3,714 beneficiary-oriented fisheries projects are currently active across the state
• 2,856 projects have been fully completed
• Projects have generated over 35,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities

News

The Centre has reaffirmed its focus on strengthening Maharashtra’s fisheries sector under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), with fisheries development projects worth ₹1,601.44 crore approved between 2020-21 and 2026-27.

According to the Department of Fisheries, the projects carry a Central share of ₹593.33 crore, of which ₹419.02 crore has already been released. The Government of Maharashtra has utilised ₹408.77 crore, reflecting a high level of fund utilisation under the scheme.

The Department said implementation of PMMSY projects is monitored through physical review meetings, virtual interactions, field inspections and a dedicated digital monitoring platform to ensure timely execution across States and Union Territories.

The approved projects cover a broad range of fisheries development initiatives, including:

• Fish production and productivity enhancement
• Fisheries infrastructure development
• Cold chain and marketing facilities
• Sustainable fisheries management
• Fishermen safety and welfare initiatives

The Ministry noted that beneficiary selection and project execution are undertaken by the respective State Governments.

Employment Generation Gains Momentum

According to the Maharashtra government, 3,714 beneficiary-oriented projects are currently under implementation under PMMSY, with 2,856 projects already completed.

These projects have generated employment for 15,763 people directly and 19,528 people indirectly, creating more than 35,000 livelihood opportunities across the fisheries value chain.

The state expects additional jobs to be created as the remaining approved projects are completed, further strengthening the socio-economic condition of fishing communities.

Hospitality Industry Impact

The continued expansion of fisheries infrastructure, cold chain facilities and seafood marketing networks is expected to improve the availability and quality of fish supplied to hotels, restaurants and foodservice businesses across Maharashtra. Better post-harvest infrastructure can reduce spoilage, improve logistics and ensure fresher seafood reaches hospitality establishments.

Employment growth in the fisheries sector may also strengthen local seafood production, supporting restaurants and hotels that increasingly rely on regional and sustainably sourced ingredients.

Travel & Tourism Impact

As one of India’s leading coastal tourism states, Maharashtra stands to benefit from stronger fisheries infrastructure that supports seafood tourism, coastal dining and local culinary experiences. Improved seafood supply chains can enhance destination restaurants, beachside hospitality and food festivals that showcase the state’s coastal cuisine.

Why It Matters

The high utilisation of PMMSY funds and the completion of thousands of fisheries projects underscore Maharashtra’s progress in modernising its fisheries ecosystem. For the hospitality, foodservice and tourism sectors, stronger seafood infrastructure and expanding employment can contribute to a more resilient and efficient seafood supply chain while supporting coastal economic development.