The Indian fisheries sector has been a vital contributor to the country’s economy and livelihood of millions of people. However, it is disheartening to know that out of the 2.8 crore fishers, fish farmers, and other stakeholders engaged in the fisheries sector, only 8.60 lakh stakeholders have been registered under the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP). This fact was recently revealed by a committee formed by the government to evaluate the progress of NFDP.
The NFDP was launched in 2019 with the aim of modernizing the fisheries sector and bringing it on par with international standards. The platform was designed to digitally register and track all the stakeholders, provide them with necessary information and services, and promote sustainable practices in the sector. It was a much-needed step towards the advancement and growth of the fisheries industry in India.
However, the committee’s report highlights the low registration numbers on the NFDP and raises concerns over the slow progress of the platform. It is indeed a matter of concern that a vast majority of fishers, fish farmers, and other stakeholders are still not registered on the platform. This could be due to several reasons, such as lack of awareness, technical constraints, or resistance to change.
The committee has also pointed out that the benefits of NFDP have not adequately reached the registered stakeholders. The platform offers various services such as weather and market information, disease diagnosis, and credit facilities, but these are not being utilized to their full potential. This is a missed opportunity for the stakeholders to improve their productivity and income.
The Indian fisheries sector has tremendous potential for growth and development. It contributes significantly to the country’s GDP and provides employment opportunities to millions of people. It is crucial to tap into this potential and make use of modern technology to enhance the sector’s efficiency and sustainability.
The government has taken positive steps towards promoting the fisheries sector. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was launched in 2020 with an investment of Rs. 20,050 crore to develop the infrastructure, modernize the fishing fleet, and provide better marketing and export opportunities for fishers and fish farmers. The government has also announced various schemes and subsidies to promote aquaculture, fish processing, and fish exports.
In this scenario, it is essential to ensure that the benefits of these initiatives reach all the stakeholders in the fisheries sector. The NFDP can play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the government and the stakeholders. It can serve as a one-stop platform for all their needs and provide them with timely and accurate information and services. However, this can be achieved only if the stakeholders are fully registered and actively using the platform.
The government and other stakeholders must work together to address the challenges faced by the NFDP. Steps should be taken to create awareness about the platform and its benefits among the fishers and fish farmers. The platform must be made user-friendly and accessible to all, including those in remote areas. Technical support and training should be provided to those who face difficulties in using the platform.
Moreover, the government must ensure that the registered stakeholders receive the promised benefits and services. Regular updates and improvements should be made to the platform to make it more efficient and effective. The success of NFDP depends on the active participation of the stakeholders, and the government must make efforts to engage with them and address their concerns.
In conclusion, the low registration numbers on the National Fisheries Digital Platform is a cause for concern, but it should not overshadow the positive steps taken by the government towards the development of the fisheries sector. The government’s efforts, coupled with the active participation of the stakeholders, can bring about significant progress in the sector. It is time for all the stakeholders to come together and make the most out of this digital platform for the betterment of the Indian fisheries sector. Let us work towards achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for all those involved in this vital industry.
