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Post-Budget webinar highlights roadmap for fisheries-led rural growth
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Monday, 09 March, 2026, 14 : 00 PM [IST]
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Our Bureau, New Delhi
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Government of India organised a Post-Budget Webinar on “Agriculture & Rural Transformation” to discuss strategies for effective implementation of Budget 2026-27 initiatives and accelerate growth in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. The webinar was conducted in hybrid mode and brought together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and other stakeholders from across the fisheries value chain.
Addressing the webinar, Narendra Modi highlighted that India is the world’s second-largest fish producer, underlining the sector’s growing contribution to exports and rural livelihoods. He emphasised the need for scientific mapping of reservoirs, cluster-based planning and stronger coordination between local communities and state fisheries departments. The Prime Minister also called for new business models across the fisheries value chain, including hatcheries, feed production, processing, branding, logistics and exports to unlock the sector’s full potential.
The inaugural session was attended by Rajiv Ranjan Singh along with Ministers of State S. P. Singh Baghel and George Kurian. During the concluding session, Baghel noted that reservoir fisheries have been included for the first time under a national framework with scientific guidelines in Budget 2026-27, which is expected to boost technology-driven aquaculture and community participation.
A breakout session organised by the Department of Fisheries focused on the integrated development of reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars for fisheries and strengthening coastal fisheries value chains. Officials highlighted the importance of cage and pen culture, species diversification, geospatial planning, and improved production clusters supported by cooperatives, startups and self-help groups.
Experts also recommended adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, real-time water quality monitoring and digital traceability systems to enhance productivity and climate-resilient aquaculture practices. These measures are expected to strengthen fisheries infrastructure, improve cold-chain access and expand processing and market linkages.
The webinar saw participation from over 15,000 stakeholders, including representatives from states and Union Territories, financial institutions, research bodies, industry associations, cooperatives and startups. The deliberations are expected to guide policy frameworks and implementation timelines for inclusive and sustainable growth of India’s fisheries sector.
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