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National Fish Farmer Day : 10 July 2026
National Fish Farmer Day : 10 July 2026
The National Fish Farmer’s Day (NFFD) is annually observed across India on July 10 to appreciate the contributions of fish farmers, aquaculture professionals, and stakeholders, underscoring their commitment to sustainable aquaculture.
The theme for National Fish Farmers Day 2026 is "Honouring the hands that strengthen India's Blue Economy".
NFFD serves as a platform to acknowledge the crucial role played by fish farmers in meeting the growing demand for fish protein, generating employment opportunities, and contributing to India’s food security.
Note: Blue economy refers to exploring and optimizing the potential of the oceans and seas which are under India's legal jurisdiction for socio-economic development, environmental sustainability, and national security.
Background:
- The concept of Blue Economy was first articulated in 1994 by Prof. Gunter Pauli at the United Nations University (UNU).
Background:
i.In 2001, the Government of India (GoI) declared that 10th July of every year as the “National Fish Farmers Day”.
ii.The 1st Fish Farmers Day was observed in 2001 by Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Fisheries Education(ICAR-CIFE).
Date Significance:
i.On July 10, 1957, the 1st success in inducing the Indian major carps (common name for several species of fish) was achieved by Professor Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury under the guidance of Dr. K.H. Alikunhi.
ii.They guided the induced breeding and reproduction of the major carp by the Hypophysation technique in the Indian fisheries sector in Angul, Odisha, leading a revolution in Inland Aquaculture.
Significance:
i.July 10 also marks the observance of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) Foundation Day.
i.NFDB was established in 2006 to enhance fish production and productivity in India to coordinate fishery development in an integrated and holistic manner.
iii.NFDB is an autonomous organization under the administrative control of the Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D.
India’s Fisheries Sector
iii.NFDB is an autonomous organization under the administrative control of the Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D.
India’s Fisheries Sector
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India is the 2nd largest fish producer and 2nd largest aquaculture nation in the world after China.
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India has ascended to become the 4th-largest exporter of marine products, marking a significant rise from eighth position in 2014-15.
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Inland fisheries account for over 75% of total output.
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Top fish-producing states: Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka.
ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA)
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Established:
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Originated from the Pond Culture Division of CIFRI in 1949, Cuttack, Odisha.
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Operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
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Mission:
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Focuses on sustainable and diversified freshwater aquaculture practices.
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Aims to enhance productivity, quality, water use efficiency, and farm income.
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Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
- It aims to bring about the Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector in India.
- PMMSY was introduced as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of Rs. 20,050 crores, the highest-ever investment in this sector.
The scheme is being implemented in all States and UTs for a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25. - In order to facilitate access to institutional credit, fishermen are provided with insurance coverage, financial assistance and a facility of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) as well.
Implementation:
- It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two separate components namely:
- Central Sector Scheme: The project cost will be borne by the Central government.
- Centrally Sponsored Scheme: All the sub-components/activities will be implemented by the States/UTs, and the cost will be shared between the Centre and State.
Objectives:
- Harness the potential of the fisheries sector in a sustainable, responsible, inclusive and equitable manner
- Enhance fish production and productivity through expansion, intensification, diversification and productive utilisation of land and water
- Modernise and strengthen the value chain including post-harvest management and quality improvement
- Double fishers' and fish farmers’ incomes and generate meaningful employment
- Enhance the contribution of the fisheries sector to agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) and exports
- Ensure social, physical and economic security for fishers and fish farmers
- Build a robust fisheries management and regulatory framework
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