What happened: Department of Fisheries Independence Day programme (15 August 2026, New Delhi)

The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India, celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day at New Delhi on 15 August 2026 in the presence of fishers and fish farmers from across India. The Department also organised an interaction programme with beneficiaries under PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana).

During the interaction programme, five beneficiaries under PMMKSSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana) were invited for an “At-home” reception hosted by the Hon’ble President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan cultural centre, New Delhi. The beneficiaries named were Shri Nitul Ch Das (Assam), Shri Suresh Chandra Rout (Odisha), Shri Ekanath Rama Mukane (Maharashtra), Shri Akash Singh (Uttar Pradesh), and Ms Misha Singh (Bihar).

Beneficiaries shared experiences describing improved livelihoods, adoption of modern practices, and expanded income opportunities supported through Government initiatives under PMMKSSY and related fisheries interventions. The Department reiterated its commitment to strengthening fisheries through sustained policy support, infrastructure development, technology adoption, and inclusive welfare measures.

Background: fisheries and aquaculture as a livelihood and production sector

The Department of Fisheries highlighted fisheries and aquaculture’s economic and employment role. The Government communication states that fisheries and aquaculture provide livelihoods to about 3 crore fishers and fish farmers. It also states that India is the world’s second-largest fish producer (contributing 8% to global fish output), ranks second in aquaculture production, leads in shrimp production and export, and is one of the largest producers in capture fisheries.

Related current affairs