Fisheries Granted Agricultural Status; A New Direction for Farmers and Fisherfolk

Mumbai, Sept 2025 : Maharashtra, with its long coastline and numerous rivers and dams, holds a special place for both marine and freshwater fishing. Fishing serves as a major source of livelihood for coastal communities, while freshwater aquaculture in rural areas ensures employment and protein-rich food security. Thus, fisheries play a vital role in the state’s economy, nutrition, and job creation.

The government has now granted agricultural status to fisheries. This landmark decision will greatly benefit the fishing community, farmers engaged in aquaculture, and the rural economy as a whole. Similar to traditional farming, fisheries will now be eligible for agricultural benefits, loan concessions, and government schemes.

Fishing has always been the backbone of livelihoods in rural and coastal regions. A significant population in the state depends on coastal waters, rivers, artificial ponds, and fish farming.

Until now, due to policy differences between agriculture and fisheries, fisherfolk were deprived of many concessions and credit facilities that were available to farmers. To correct this imbalance, the government has decided to recognize fisheries as agriculture.

Benefits of Granting Agricultural Status to Fisheries:

1. Loan Facilities:

• Access to low-interest loans for aquaculture.
• Simplified policies for long-term credit and capital investment.
• Kisan Credit Card eligibility extended to fisherfolk.

2. Subsidies and Schemes:

• Fisherfolk can now avail various agricultural schemes.
• Infrastructure schemes meant for farming will also be applicable to fisheries.

3. Insurance Coverage:

• Fisheries to get protection similar to crop insurance.
• Helps reduce losses from natural disasters or water quality issues.

4. Technical Support and Research:

• Guidance from agricultural universities and research centers for fish farming.
• Increased adoption of modern technology.

5. Rural Employment and Economy:

• Job creation in coastal and rural areas.
• Boost to fish processing industries and export opportunities.

This decision will bridge the gap between farmers and fisherfolk while giving a fresh boost to the rural and coastal economy. It is expected to increase fish production, making Maharashtra a leader in exports. Young entrepreneurs will find new opportunities to adopt modern technologies in fisheries.

Granting agricultural status to fisheries is a visionary step by the Maharashtra government. It will not only provide economic stability to fisherfolk but also enhance their social dignity. By integrating agriculture and aquaculture, “water farming” will evolve into an independent and sustainable sector with greater momentum.