Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the fisheries sector and enhancing livelihood opportunities for fishing communities, the Government of Goa celebrated National Fish Farmers Day 2026 at Panjim Gymkhana, Campal, through a programme organised by the Directorate of Fisheries. The event witnessed the launch of a new fisheries initiative, distribution of benefits under various schemes and recognition of fish farmers and fishermen for their contribution to the sector.
Further expanding opportunities in aquaculture and allied activities, the Government of Goa launched the Financial Assistance for Setting up of Crab Culture Unit in Goa scheme and released the National Conference Proceedings Book on Aquaculture and Fisheries. The newly launched scheme is expected to support fishermen, fish farmers, self-help groups and aspiring entrepreneurs by promoting crab farming, a sector witnessing growing demand in both domestic and international markets. The initiative aims to encourage diversification within aquaculture while creating additional avenues for income generation.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said that fisheries have been an integral part of Goa’s economy and cultural heritage long before tourism emerged as a major economic driver. He noted that generations of Goan families have built their livelihoods around fishing and allied activities, making a significant contribution to food security, employment and economic development. Emphasising the need to protect the interests of traditional fishermen, he stated that local Goans should receive greater opportunities within the sector and encouraged youth to explore fisheries and aquaculture as viable avenues for entrepreneurship and livelihood creation.
Dr. Sawant also stressed the importance of modernising the sector while preserving traditional livelihoods. He called upon fishermen to avail themselves of government schemes and directed the concerned authorities to expedite the issuance of Fish Seller Cards to eligible traditional fishermen. Highlighting the need for better hygiene and organised marketing practices, he urged stakeholders to maintain clean fish vending spaces and adopt responsible practices that enhance consumer confidence and improve the overall image of the sector.
The programme also witnessed the distribution of benefits to nearly 500 beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and various State Government schemes. Beneficiaries received sanction letters, fish vending kits, solar dryers, life jackets, insulated boxes, registration certificates for Harkari societies, TED (Turtle Excluder Device) installation certificates and certificates for fish farmers. Progressive fish farmers and fishermen were felicitated in recognition of their contribution to the growth and development of the fisheries sector.
The programme was attended by Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Factories and Boilers, Nilkanth Halarnkar; Secretary (Fisheries), Prasanna Acharya, IAS; Director of Fisheries Dr. Shamila Monteiro; officials of the Fisheries Department, fish farmers, fishermen, members of Harkari societies, representatives of self-help groups, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders from the fisheries sector.
