Punjab Promotes Fisheries as Pathway to Empower Youth and Women

Punjab : The Punjab government is taking significant strides to empower its youth and women by encouraging them to adopt fisheries as a viable occupation for financial independence. As part of this initiative, the government is offering free elementary training in fish and shrimp farming every month, along with providing high-quality fish seeds at subsidized rates to those interested in entering the sector.

Punjab’s Fisheries Minister, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting aspiring fish farmers by offering financial assistance. This move aims to make fisheries a sustainable and profitable livelihood option, particularly for the youth and women in rural areas. The state is keen on promoting this sector as part of its broader efforts to bring about a “Blue Revolution,” which seeks to transform the fisheries industry, boost production, and improve livelihoods.

Khudian further urged the state’s farmers to consider fish farming as an allied agricultural activity. He emphasized that diversifying into fisheries could significantly boost farmers’ income, especially with the rising demand for fish and seafood in domestic and international markets.

Currently, Punjab has about 44,000 acres of land dedicated to fish farming, and the state’s annual fish production stands at an impressive 1.81 lakh tonnes. The state government believes that with the right training, resources, and financial support, the fisheries sector can become a major contributor to rural development and economic growth.

The push for fisheries comes at a time when the government is also focusing on sustainable practices and technological advancements in aquaculture. Through partnerships with industry experts and the provision of modern equipment, the government aims to increase productivity, enhance the quality of produce, and ensure the welfare of the communities involved.

The fisheries sector in Punjab holds immense potential, not just in terms of employment but also as a key part of the state’s agricultural diversification strategy. With these measures in place, the Punjab government hopes to see a substantial increase in the number of people, particularly women and youth, taking up fish farming as a successful livelihood.