Jharkhand, with its extensive coastline, rich aquatic biodiversity, and abundant inland water resources, is well-positioned to lead in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development. The Jharkhand Fisheries Policy 2024 is a visionary initiative designed to transform the state’s fisheries sector by ensuring food security, improving livelihoods for fishers, and generating sustainable employment through the promotion of modern aquaculture practices and effective fisheries management.
Make in Jharkhand aims to establish the state as a pioneer in aquaculture development, capitalizing on its natural resources, driving innovation, and fostering inclusive economic growth. This policy not only seeks to increase production but also to build a resilient, environmentally sustainable, and globally competitive fisheries sector.
By 2030, Make in Jharkhand envisions establishing the state as a global leader in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, with the following key objectives:
The Jharkhand Fisheries Policy 2024 lays out key strategic objectives to establish a sustainable and inclusive fisheries sector:
Jharkhand will expand freshwater aquaculture by developing 15,000 hectares of ponds and advancing marine fisheries through initiatives like shrimp farming, vannamei culture, and deep-sea fishing. Emphasizing sustainable practices, the state aims to boost productivity while preserving ecological balance, ensuring lasting benefits for both fishers and the environment.
Jharkhand will establish 20 new fish hatcheries to address the increasing demand for high-quality fish seed, empowering aquaculture farmers to boost their production. Additionally, the state will set up three feed mills with a combined annual capacity of 30,000 tonnes of premium fish feed, supporting sustainable and efficient aquaculture practices.
To strengthen the fisheries value chain, Jharkhand will establish advanced post-harvest infrastructure, including processing units, cold storage facilities, and dedicated fish export hubs. The policy also outlines the construction of 100 km of approach roads and the provision of dedicated power feeders to fishery clusters, ensuring better market access and enhancing export capabilities.
The policy will encourage the establishment of fisheries cooperatives and foster entrepreneurship in the sector. Jharkhand will provide financial support, subsidies, and tax incentives to large-scale fish farmers, while empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in aquaculture and fisheries processing to drive growth and innovation.
Jharkhand will prioritize skill development by establishing a state-of-the-art Fisheries Training Center. This center will offer specialized training to fishers, fisheries personnel, NGOs, and aspiring youth entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to adopt modern, sustainable aquaculture practices effectively.
The Jharkhand Fisheries Policy 2024 provides a range of incentives to promote investments and foster growth in the fisheries and aquaculture sector:
Incentive Type | Details |
Large-Scale Fish Farmers Subsidy | Tax holidays and financial incentives for fish farmers producing over 10 tonnes/ha. |
Export Incentives | Rationalization of duties, taxes, and cess on the export of fish and fishery products, including packaging materials and machinery. |
Working Capital Assistance | Provision of priority lending and working capital support for fisheries cooperatives and large-scale fish producers. |
Insurance Coverage | Insurance for fish ponds, equipment, and aquaculture instruments, with incentives for insurance companies to cover fish seed farms and fish culture. |
Sustainable Coastal Aquaculture | 25% incentives for shrimp and fish hatchery projects, including vannamei culture and deep-sea fishing. |
Post-Harvest Infrastructure Support | 25% incentives for developing post-harvest infrastructure, including processing units, cold storage facilities, and export hubs. |
Jharkhand is dedicated to enhancing ease of doing business for fisheries and aquaculture investors. The state will introduce a streamlined Single Window Clearance System to expedite approvals for fisheries projects. This platform will enable seamless online application processing, minimize delays, and eliminate regulatory hurdles, fostering a business-friendly environment.
The Jharkhand Fisheries Policy 2024 is a visionary initiative aimed at establishing Jharkhand as the foremost state in fisheries and aquaculture development in India. By encouraging sustainable aquaculture practices, driving investments in fisheries infrastructure, and fostering inclusive growth, the state seeks to become a key contributor to India’s thriving Blue Economy.