National Fish Farmers Day

Every year in India, on July 10th, National Fish Farmers' Day is commemorated. It is observed to celebrate a legendary discovery that created a history in the Indian fishing industry. The National Fisheries Development Board was also founded on the same date in the year 2006. The current chief executive of this prestigious institution is Suvarna Chandrappagari. The headquarters are situated in Hyderabad, Telangana.

On July 10th, 1957, Professor Dr Hiralal Chaudhury and his colleague, Dr Alikunhi, achieved their first success in the induced breeding of large fishes in Odisha. Induced breeding is a scientific approach to contemporary fish breeding in which mature and spawn fishes are pushed to lay eggs by advancing pituitary hormone activity. This groundbreaking discovery was capable of bringing an immense change in the aquaculture sector of India by ensuring prolific production. The greatest increase in output rate could also ensure the country's massive economic growth. To honour this glorious history, the Indian government decided to observe Fish Farmers Day.

The Backdrop of National Fish Farmers Day

Statistical data suggests that India holds the second-largest position in the world in the fish production sector. So, it is important to maintain the quality of aquaculture to achieve prolific fish production and enormous economic growth. Observing its importance, the government of India declared July 10th as a day to celebrate fish farming day nationwide in 2001. The agenda was to show solidarity with the people associated with aquaculture, including fishermen, fish farmers, fisheries scientists, and stakeholders. The first celebration of National Fish Farmers Day was celebrated in 2001 under the supervision of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. The pioneering institute in the field of fisheries education, named the Central Institute of Fisheries Education, also took part in this auspicious ceremony.

National Fish Farmers Day Theme 2021

• In 2021, India celebrated its 75th independence year by observing "Amrit Mahotsav" nationwide. Every national campaign has been commemorated with remarkable planning and programming. The 21st Fish Farmers Day has also been no exception. The nationwide celebration was taken a step forward with the national campaign of "Ecosystem Management for Sustainable Fisheries".
• The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) organized a virtual conference to observe the 21st National Fish Farmers' Day due to the pandemic situation. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy also participated in this web conference.
• This was also the 15th anniversary of the birth of NFDB.
• Some influential personalities, including Puroshattam Rupala, union minister of fisheries, and L. Murugan, Minister of State for Fisheries, were present at the virtual event.
• The beneficial aspects of a government-launched programme, named Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada (PMMSY) Yojana, along with profitable schemes provided by NFDB, have been discussed. The discussion enlightened the people associated with aquaculture about the prospects of fishing sectors in India.
• PMMSY has been launched as a flagship scheme provided by the government of India. It came into action in September 2020, aiming for better and sustainable expansion in the fishing sector of India. The implementation cost of this scheme is close to 20,050 crores of rupees.
• The government of India declared that PMMSY would be applied to fishing sectors nationwide including states and union territories from FY20-21 to FY24-25.

The main motive of observing the National Fish Farmers' Day is to make people aware of the ongoing schemes beneficial for fishing sectors. Observing fish farming days can also encourage people to get involved in the fishing sectors ensuring prolific fish production.

FAQs on National Fish Farmers Day

Q.1. Which day is observed as National Fish Farmers Day in India?

The National Fish Farmers Day in India is celebrated on 10th July every year.

Q.2. What was the theme of National Fish Farmers Day 2021?

The theme of the 21st national fish farming day was "Ecosystem Management for Sustainable Fisheries".

Q.3. Why is the national fish farming day commemorated in India?

The major goal of commemorating National fish farming day is to raise public awareness about current fishing-related programmes. It also serves the purpose of demonstrating unity with the people working in the fishing industries.

Q.4. What is the full form of NFDB that observes National Fish Farmers Day?

NFDB stands for National Fisheries Development Board that observes National Fish Farmers Day every year.