Daily Current Affairs : 27-December-2024

The government of India has introduced several initiatives to improve the productivity of the fisheries sector and ensure its long-term sustainability. Among these, two important programs stand out: Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras. Both are part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a flagship scheme aimed at transforming the fisheries sector.

Matsya Seva Kendras: Supporting Fish Farmers

What are Matsya Seva Kendras?

Matsya Seva Kendras are one-stop solution centres created to provide crucial services to fish farmers and hatcheries. These centres aim to offer comprehensive support in various aspects of aquaculture and fisheries management.

Key Features:

  • Extension Services: These centres help with disease management, capacity building, and technology infusion for fish farming.
  • Equipped with Labs: Matsya Seva Kendras are equipped with labs that conduct water, soil, and microbial analysis to ensure the best environment for fish farming.
  • Tailored Services: They provide services based on the specific needs of farmers, such as disease testing and training programs.
  • Cooperative Model: The centres promote the formation of cooperatives, self-help groups (SHGs), and start-ups to share best practices and encourage collective growth.

Launch and Objective:

  • The initiative was launched in 2020 under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
  • The main aim is to improve productivity, reduce losses due to diseases, and ensure better farming practices in the aquaculture industry.
Sagar Mitra: Empowering Coastal Fishers

What is Sagar Mitra?

Sagar Mitra acts as a bridge between the government and the coastal fishers. It serves as a field-level interface that supports fishers by providing crucial information on various aspects of fishing and fish marketing.

Key Features:

  • Data Collection: Sagar Mitra collects important data related to marine catch, market trends, and pricing, which helps fishers make informed decisions.
  • Market Insights: The initiative also provides updates on market conditions and helps fishers identify profitable markets.
  • Regulations and Safety Information: Fishers receive updates on local fishing regulations, weather forecasts, and potential fishing zones, ensuring they are well-prepared.
  • Hygienic Practices: Sagar Mitra promotes the use of hygienic practices for handling fish, which is essential for maintaining fish quality and safety.

Launch and Objective:

  • This initiative was launched in coastal states and union territories under the PMMSY to empower local fishers.
  • It focuses on promoting sustainable fishing practices, improving livelihoods, and ensuring safety in the fishing process.
Important Points:
  • Matsya Seva Kendras:
    • One-stop solution centres for fish farmers and hatcheries.
    • Launched under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in 2020.
    • Provide support in aquaculture, disease management, and training.
    • Equipped with labs for water, soil, and microbial analysis.
    • Offer need-based services like disease testing and capacity building.
    • Encourage cooperatives, SHGs, and start-ups to share best practices.
  • Sagar Mitra:
    • Field-level interface between government and coastal fishers.
    • Launched in coastal states and UTs under PMMSY.
    • Supports fishers with data dissemination, market insights, and sustainable fishing practices.
    • Collects data on marine catch, market trends, and prices.
    • Provides updates on local regulations, weather forecasts, and fishing zones.
    • Promotes hygienic fish handling and safety information.
  • Overall Aim:
    • Boost productivity in fisheries.
    • Promote sustainability in the fishing industry.
    • Improve the livelihoods of fish farmers and coastal fishers.
Why In News

The government has introduced initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras under flagship schemes to boost productivity, improve livelihoods, and ensure sustainable practices in the fisheries sector, aiming for long-term growth and environmental balance.

MCQs about Transforming Fisheries:Key Government Initiatives
  1. What is the primary objective of the Matsya Seva Kendras?
    A. To promote fish consumption among the public
    B. To provide a one-stop solution for fish farmers and hatcheries
    C. To establish fish markets across India
    D. To manage international fish trade
    Correct Answer: B. To provide a one-stop solution for fish farmers and hatcheries
    Explanation: Matsya Seva Kendras are designed to offer support in aquaculture, disease management, and training for fish farmers and hatcheries, providing essential services for the growth of the fisheries sector.
  2. Under which government scheme were both Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras launched?
    A. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
    B. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
    C. Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
    D. National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA)
    Correct Answer: B. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
    Explanation: Both Matsya Seva Kendras and Sagar Mitras were launched under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which aims to enhance fisheries productivity and promote sustainable practices.
  3. What services do Matsya Seva Kendras provide to fish farmers?
    A. Only fish marketing support
    B. Disease management, aquaculture support, and training
    C. Financial support for buying fishing equipment
    D. Free fish supply to farmers
    Correct Answer: B. Disease management, aquaculture support, and training
    Explanation: Matsya Seva Kendras provide comprehensive services such as disease management, aquaculture support, capacity building, and technology infusion, aimed at improving the productivity of fish farming.
  4. What role does a Sagar Mitra play in the coastal fishing communities?
    A. Facilitating international trade of fish
    B. Collecting data on marine catch, market trends, and providing safety information
    C. Providing subsidies for fishing boats
    D. Distributing fish to local markets
    Correct Answer: B. Collecting data on marine catch, market trends, and providing safety information
    Explanation: Sagar Mitras act as an interface between the government and coastal fishers, helping them with data on marine catch, market trends, regulations, and promoting safe, hygienic fish-handling practices.

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