Tripura's Minister for Animal Resources Development and Fisheries, Sudhangsu Das, has called on the central government to revise the funding structure of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to better support the blue economy and livestock sectors in the northeastern region. Speaking at a regional review meeting in Aizawl, attended by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Das proposed shifting the current cost-sharing model from a 60:40 Centre-State split to a 90:10 ratio. He argued that the existing arrangement places a heavy financial burden on small and marginal farmers in the northeast, making it difficult for them to participate effectively in the scheme.
Need for Collaborative Framework
Das emphasized the importance of a stronger collaborative framework and faster implementation of development programs to unlock the full potential of fisheries and livestock in the region. A 90:10 funding split, he said, would significantly ease the state's share of the financial load, thereby improving inclusivity and grassroots reach of PMMSY. This change is expected to enable more local farmers to benefit from the scheme, which aims to enhance fish production and productivity.
Operational Delays and Environmental Challenges
The minister also flagged operational delays in fund disbursement, stressing that timely releases are critical in the Northeast, where the execution window for infrastructure projects is constrained, particularly during the monsoon season. He urged the ministry to adopt adaptable funding models that account for environmental disruptions, citing the region's vulnerability to frequent flooding. Such flexibility, he noted, would ensure that projects are not hampered by natural calamities.
State Initiative: Mukhyamantri Matsya Vikas Yojana
Das highlighted Tripura's own Mukhyamantri Matsya Vikas Yojana (MMVY), a state-level initiative focused on pond development and distribution of fishery resources. This program aims to boost local fish production and reduce dependence on supplies from outside the state. The minister suggested that similar state-specific efforts could be integrated with central schemes for greater impact.
Livestock Sector: Scaling Up Production
On the livestock front, Das noted that while the northeast is self-sufficient in meat production, there is a pressing need to scale up milk and egg output through targeted interventions and modern infrastructure in dairy and poultry. He recommended expanding the National Livestock Mission to comprehensively include cattle farming, which would help address the milk deficit and improve the genetic quality of local herds. Such measures, he argued, are essential for achieving food security and economic growth in the region.
The minister's proposals underline the unique challenges faced by the northeastern states, including geographical constraints, limited resources, and climate vulnerabilities, and call for a tailored approach to development that ensures no region is left behind.
