PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Fisheries Development Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is the flagship scheme for fisheries sector development in India, launched in 2020 with an investment of Rs 20,050 crore. It aims to bring about a Blue Revolution by boosting fish production, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the livelihoods of fishers and fish farmers.

What is PMMSY?

PMMSY is implemented by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India. The scheme has two main components:

1. Central Sector Scheme (CSS): For pan-India activities like fishing harbours, cold chain, and marketing infrastructure
2. Centrally Sponsored Scheme: For state-specific activities with centre-state cost sharing

The scheme targets increasing fish production by an additional 70 lakh tonnes by 2024-25 and doubling fisheries exports.

Key Benefits

Subsidy rates: General category gets 40% subsidy; SC/ST/Women/NE states get 60% subsidy.

Who is Eligible?

1. Individual fishers and fish farmers
2. Fish workers and fish vendors
3. Fisheries cooperatives and SHGs
4. Fisheries Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs)
5. SC/ST/Women entrepreneurs (priority with higher subsidy)
6. Private entrepreneurs in fisheries sector
7. State governments and their entities

Individual Eligibility

• Must be an Indian citizen
• Must be engaged in or willing to start fisheries activity
• Land/water body availability for proposed activity
• Bank account for DBT
• No defaulter status with banks

Documents Required

• Aadhaar card (see our Aadhaar guide)
• Land/water body ownership or lease documents
• Bank account passbook
• Project report for proposed activity
• Caste certificate (for SC/ST applicants)
• Identity proof and passport-size photographs
• Fisheries license/registration (if existing fisher)
• Quotation for equipment/infrastructure proposed

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Online Application

1. Visit the PMMSY portal at pmmsy.dof.gov.in
2. Click on "Apply Online" or "Beneficiary Registration"
3. Register with your mobile number and Aadhaar
4. Select your state and the specific PMMSY component you wish to apply for
5. Fill in personal details, proposed activity, and project details
6. Upload required documents including project report
7. Submit the application
8. The application is forwarded to the District Fisheries Officer for verification

Offline Application

1. Visit the District Fisheries Office in your district
2. Collect the PMMSY application form
3. Fill in the form with complete project details
4. Attach all required documents
5. Submit the form — it will be reviewed by district and state fisheries departments

Processing Time

• Application review: 30-60 days
• Verification and approval: 60-90 days
• Subsidy disbursement: After project completion/milestone achievement

Important Tips

1. Prepare a detailed project report — This is crucial for approval
2. Bank linkage — Ensure you have a bank loan sanction for the remaining project cost (non-subsidy portion)
3. Women and SC/ST get 60% subsidy — Higher benefit for marginalised groups
4. Training is available — Avail free training through state fisheries departments before starting
5. Insurance is included — Register for fisher insurance under PMMSY for accident and life cover

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total budget of PMMSY?

Rs 20,050 crore for the scheme period.

2. What subsidy percentage do I get?

General category gets 40% and SC/ST/Women/NE states get 60% subsidy on eligible project cost.

3. Can I start a new fish farm under PMMSY?

Yes, new fish pond construction and aquaculture activities are covered with subsidy support.

4. Is there any training available?

Yes, PMMSY includes a training and skill development component. Contact your District Fisheries Office.

5. Can SHGs and cooperatives apply?

Yes, fisheries cooperatives, SHGs, and FFPOs are eligible with enhanced support.

6. Do I need to contribute my own money?

Yes, the beneficiary share (40-60% of project cost) can come from own funds or bank loan.

7. Is the scheme available in all states?

Yes, PMMSY is available across all states and union territories of India.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is not affiliated with the Government of India. Visit pmmsy.dof.gov.in for official details.