Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has emphasized the state government’s commitment, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to enhancing the economic well-being of farmers and fishers. He highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is already among the leading states in agricultural production and now aims to double fishery output in the coming years to give the sector a new identity.
Government Dedicated to Fisher Welfare and Aquaculture
The Chief Minister assured that the state government is fully committed to the welfare of fishers. Along with fish farming, aquaculture activities will be promoted to create a robust ecosystem, ensuring better income and sustainable economic empowerment for the community. These directives were given during a review meeting of the Fisher Welfare & Fisheries Development Department at the state secretariat.
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Plan to Make Madhya Pradesh Number One in Fisheries
Dr. Yadav said that the current year is being celebrated as the Year of Farmer Welfare. In this context, a detailed plan is being prepared to make Madhya Pradesh the number one state in fishery production in India. Key measures include:
- Organizing fisher conferences to honor and encourage outstanding fishers.
- Focusing on seed production to boost overall fishery output.
- Developing effective strategies for the state-run Fisher Federation to ensure efficient utilization.
Promoting Farm Pond Models and Integrated Aquaculture
The Chief Minister suggested that in districts with low groundwater levels, fish production could be increased through farm pond models. One district will be developed as a model district, where along with fish farming, crops such as water chestnut, lotus, and foxnut (makhana) will be encouraged. This initiative aims to provide additional income opportunities to farmers and fishers.
Cage Culture Policy and CM Fisher Prosperity Scheme
Officials informed the meeting that the Cage Culture Policy is being implemented to enhance fish production, with plans to develop:
- 10,000 beneficiary-based cages
- 90,000 entrepreneur-based cages
Additionally, updates were shared on the Chief Minister Fisher Prosperity Scheme and the proposed Integrated Aqua Park & Research Center in Bhopal. Instructions were given to establish fish houses at divisional levels to support fishery activities.
Review of Departmental Plans and Key Projects
The review meeting evaluated the progress of departmental schemes for FY 2024-25 and 2025-26, including:
- Kisan Credit Card
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
- CM Fisher Prosperity Scheme
- Special projects approved by the Government of India
Other projects discussed included cage culture at Indira Sagar reservoir, Technology Diffusion Centers, reservoir cluster-based fisheries, and coordinated fish houses and research centers.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State (Independent Charge) Narayan Singh Panwar, Chief Secretary Anurag Jain, Additional Chief Secretaries Neeraj Mandloi and Ashok Barnwal, along with senior departmental officers.
Key Decisions from the Cabinet Meeting
- The next Agriculture Cabinet meeting will be held in Balaghat to plan district-level development and strategies for farmers.
- A rescue center will be set up at zoos to treat injured animals.
- Wheat registration for 2026–27 is scheduled from February 7 to March 7, with MSP set at ₹2,585 per quintal, ₹160 higher than last year.
- Payment at MSP will be credited directly to farmers’ bank accounts.
- Madhya Pradesh is among the top five states in TB eradication, with expanded sickle cell screening and treatment facilities.
- Gudi Padwa festival will be celebrated officially across the state on March 19, 2026.
- The new state pension scheme now includes provisions for divorced daughters.
- Age limit for High Court computer operators increased by five years to 45.
- Continuation of welfare programs including Nutrition Grant Scheme, Integrated Hostels, and CM Rise Schools approved.
About Madhya Pradesh Government’s Fisheries Initiative
Madhya Pradesh is taking significant steps to boost fishery production, aquaculture, and farmer income, integrating modern techniques like cage culture, farm pond models, and research centers. These initiatives aim to establish the state as a leader in fisheries, while ensuring economic empowerment for rural communities and fishers.
