The Impressive TimesBhubaneswar, July 09- In a landmark event honouring the unsung heroes of India’s aquaculture revolution, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAH&D) is set to celebrate National Fish Farmers Day 2025 today at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar. The day pays tribute to the tireless dedication of fish farmers, who have played a pivotal role in shaping India’s Blue Economy and ensuring national food security.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, along with Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and George Kurian, Ministers of State for MoFAH&D and Panchayati Raj, will grace the occasion. Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries, Gokulananda Mallick, will also participate in the grand celebration.
National Fish Farmers Day commemorates the groundbreaking work of Dr. Hiralal Chaudhury and Dr. K.H. Alikunhi, who pioneered induced breeding in Indian Major Carps in 1957 through the Hypophysation technique, laying the foundation for India’s inland aquaculture revolution.
The event serves as a platform to celebrate the growing contribution of fish farmers, cooperatives, women entrepreneurs, and fisheries start-ups in advancing sustainable aquaculture, boosting rural employment, and meeting the rising demand for fish-based protein.
Since 2013-14, India has doubled its fish production, reaching a record 195 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25, marking an extraordinary 104% increase. Inland fisheries and aquaculture alone have seen 140% growth, affirming India’s efficient use of freshwater resources.
Moreover, shrimp production has surged by 270%, contributing to seafood exports crossing ₹60,500 crore, and solidifying India’s position as a global shrimp export leader.
The Hon’ble Union Minister will launch several transformative initiatives for the fisheries sector, including:
New Fisheries Clusters to promote regional aquaculture hubs
ICAR Training Calendar 2025 to boost skill development and technical knowledge
Seed Certification & Hatchery Operation Guidelines to ensure quality assurance and standardisation in fish seed production
Virtual foundation laying and inauguration of key PMMSY-supported projects
Fisheries beneficiaries—including traditional fishers, FFPOs, Kisan Credit Card holders, and innovative start-ups—will be felicitated for their exemplary contributions to India’s fisheries growth.
Union Ministers will deliver keynote speeches on current sectoral trends, policy priorities, and future opportunities in aquaculture and marine resources management. Senior officials from state governments across the country will join the celebrations, marking nationwide solidarity with the fisheries community.
With a cumulative investment of ₹38,572 crore in fisheries since 2015, the Government of India is driving a holistic transformation of the sector through flagship programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). These investments not only fuel economic development but also empower millions of livelihoods in coastal and inland communities.
The celebration of National Fish Farmers Day 2025 underlines the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and technology-driven fisheries ecosystem—one that honours traditional knowledge while embracing innovation.
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