The National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) has started the selection process to transform fish cooperatives into Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
The National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) is a pioneering initiative launched by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India. The platform’s development is envisioned as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub-scheme of the broader Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampda Yojana (PMMSY).
The current initiative seeks to enhance both marine and inland fisheries across India by utilizing the extensive network of fish cooperatives comprising millions of members.
The program is expected to benefit 188 fish cooperatives in Kerala. With a national total of 28,300 fish cooperatives and 4 million members, Kerala’s cooperatives stand out for their quality and numbers. Officials indicate that additional cooperatives in the state may also qualify for support under the scheme.
As part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samriddhi Saha Yojana (PMMKSSY), 5,500 fisheries cooperatives across the country will receive financial assistance to evolve into sustainable and self-reliant FFPOs. Each cooperative will be granted ₹2 lakh, which includes ₹1 lakh for gap analysis and business planning, ₹90,000 for office equipment, and ₹10,000 for training initiatives.
This transformative effort aims to empower the fisheries sector by fostering robust, resourceful cooperatives equipped to meet modern challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.
