Matsya Shakti Project

The project will be launched by the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying to support and empower minority fishing communities.

About Matsya Shakti Project

• Objective:
  To empower minority fishing communities by providing them with the skills needed to improve their livelihoods and welfare.

• Implementing Body:
  The project will be executed by the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), which functions under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.

• Scheme under which it is conceived:
  It comes under the Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme, which is focused on skill development and empowerment of minority and artisan communities.

Features of Matsya Shakti Project

• Focus:
  Enhancing socio-economic conditions of minority fisherfolk families in the district.

• Training Program:
  The project offers a year-long, phased training program aimed at skill development and sustainable livelihood practices.

• Training Areas:
  Hands-on training will be provided in critical areas such as:

  • Integrated Aquaculture (combining fish farming with other agricultural practices for sustainability)

  • Seed Production (breeding and raising fish seeds or larvae)

  • Advanced Fisheries Technologies (modern tools and techniques to improve fishery productivity)

Key Facts about Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) Scheme

• Ministry:
  Launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs as a central sector scheme.

• Purpose:
  Provides skill development, leadership training, and entrepreneurship opportunities for minorities and artisan communities across India.

• Scope:
  The scheme is designed to benefit approximately 9 lakh candidates during the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2025-26).

• Components:
  PM VIKAS merges and consolidates five existing schemes:

  • Seekho aur Kamao (Learn and Earn)

  • USTTAD (Upgrading Skills and Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development)

  • Hamari Dharohar

  • Nai Roshni

  • Nai Manzil

• Integration:
  It integrates the Skill India Mission and collaborates with ministries like Women & Child Development, Panchayati Raj, Tourism, and Education for holistic development in minority-concentrated areas.

The Matsya Shakti Project is a focused initiative under PM VIKAS to uplift minority fishing communities through comprehensive skill-building in modern aquaculture and fisheries technology, ultimately boosting their socio-economic status and sustainable livelihoods