Fishermen to Be Made Self-Reliant, Says Minister Nitesh Rane

Mumbai, March 2026: Nitesh Rane said that the government is making consistent efforts to make fishermen in the state economically strong and self-reliant through various schemes, including the Chief Minister’s Fisheries Development Scheme.

He was speaking at a meeting held at the मंत्रालय (Mantralaya) with representatives of various fishermen’s organizations to discuss their issues. The meeting was attended by Fisheries Department Secretary Ramaswamy N., Managing Director of Maharashtra Fisheries Development Corporation Prakash Khaple, National Fisheries Development Board member Prakash M. Lonare, along with representatives of fishermen’s organizations and concerned officials.

Rane stated that the government’s primary objective is to increase productivity by promoting the use of modern technology alongside traditional fishing practices. Emphasis is being laid on providing fishermen with advanced boats, fishing nets, and cold storage facilities. Additionally, training, loan facilities, and subsidy schemes related to fisheries are being implemented more effectively.

The government is also focusing on the development of infrastructure in coastal areas, modernization of ports, and establishment of fish processing industries.

He added that increasing fishermen’s income and improving their standard of living is a key priority. Various incentive schemes are also being introduced to encourage youth to take up inland fisheries.

Rane expressed confidence that these initiatives will strengthen the fishing community in the state and give a new direction to the fisheries sector.