Daily Current Affairs : 8-January-2025

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has launched India’s first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This initiative aims to revolutionize the country’s fisheries sector by promoting sustainable practices and producing eco-friendly, organic fish.

Objective of the Organic Fisheries Cluster

The primary goal of the Organic Fisheries Cluster is to produce fish that are free from antibiotics, chemicals, and pesticides. This will cater to the growing demand for organic products in global markets. By focusing on sustainability, the project aims to create a healthier aquaculture environment while benefiting both producers and consumers.

Key features of the cluster include:

  • Antibiotic-free: No harmful chemicals are used in the farming of the fish.
  • Eco-conscious: Promotes eco-friendly practices and minimizes pollution.
  • Global Market: Aims to supply organic fish to markets worldwide.
Promoting Sustainable Practices

This initiative not only focuses on fish production but also emphasizes sustainable aquaculture methods. By adopting organic farming techniques, it aims to:

  • Prevent Pollution: Minimize water and soil pollution caused by traditional fishing methods.
  • Protect Ecosystems: Ensure the health of aquatic ecosystems by avoiding harmful substances.
  • Support Sustainable Growth: Encourage long-term sustainability in fish farming.
Support and Funding from National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

To strengthen the cluster, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will provide necessary funding. This includes:

  • Infrastructure Development: Building the required facilities for organic fish farming.
  • Capacity Building: Training fish farmers on sustainable aquaculture practices.
  • Formation of FFPOs: Establishing Fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) to manage and grow the cluster.
Sikkim’s Role as India’s First Organic State

Sikkim has made a significant contribution to the promotion of organic practices. It has become India’s first fully organic state, with 75,000 hectares of land converted to certified organic farming. This provides a strong foundation for the organic fisheries cluster to thrive in the state.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

The PMMSY scheme, under which the organic fisheries cluster is being launched, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at developing the fisheries sector. With an investment of Rs 20,050 crores, the scheme focuses on:

  • Increasing Fish Production: Enhancing fish farming capacity and output.
  • Building Infrastructure: Creating facilities for storage, processing, and marketing.
  • Supporting Fishermen: Ensuring the welfare and growth of fishers and fish farmers across the country.

The scheme is being implemented across India from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25, with the Department of Fisheries overseeing the progress.

Important Points
  • India’s First Organic Fisheries Cluster: Launched in Soreng District, Sikkim under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
  • Focus on Organic Fish: Aims to produce antibiotic, chemical, and pesticide-free fish for eco-conscious markets globally.
  • Promoting Sustainable Practices: The cluster supports eco-friendly fish farming, preventing pollution, and protecting aquatic ecosystems.
  • NABARD’s Role: Providing funding for infrastructure development, capacity building, and formation of Fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
  • Sikkim as an Organic State: Sikkim is India’s first fully organic state with 75,000 hectares of land under certified organic farming.
  • PMMSY Scheme: A Rs 20,050 crore initiative to enhance fish production, infrastructure, and the welfare of fishers and farmers.
  • Implementation Timeline: The scheme runs from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25, overseen by the Department of Fisheries.
Why In News

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying launched India’s first organic fisheries cluster in Soreng District, Sikkim, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable and eco-friendly fish farming practices in the country. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to fostering green agriculture and enhancing the livelihood of fish farmers while preserving aquatic ecosystems.

MCQs about India Launches Organic Fisheries Cluster in Sikkim
  1. Where was India’s first organic fisheries cluster launched?
    A. Kerala
    B. Sikkim
    C. West Bengal
    D. Goa
    Correct Answer: B. Sikkim
    Explanation: The first organic fisheries cluster was launched in Soreng District, Sikkim, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
  2. What is the main objective of the Organic Fisheries Cluster in Sikkim?
    A. To increase the production of synthetic fish
    B. To produce fish using antibiotics and chemicals
    C. To produce organic fish free from antibiotics, chemicals, and pesticides
    D. To reduce fish production
    Correct Answer: C. To produce organic fish free from antibiotics, chemicals, and pesticides
    Explanation: The cluster aims to produce antibiotic, chemical, and pesticide-free organic fish for eco-conscious markets globally.
  3. Which organization is providing funding and support for infrastructure development in the Organic Fisheries Cluster?
    A. Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
    B. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
    C. State Bank of India (SBI)
    D. Ministry of Finance
    Correct Answer: B. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)
    Explanation: NABARD is supporting the cluster by funding infrastructure development, capacity building, and the formation of Fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).

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