In a significant step towards strengthening marine fisheries and supporting coastal communities, the Government of India has approved the deployment of 350 ‘Sagar Mitras’ across various coastal villages in Andhra Pradesh under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This move aims to enhance fisheries extension services, ensure better access to ocean data, and improve fishermen welfare schemes in the state.
The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, confirmed the approval, highlighting that 317 of the 350 sanctioned Sagar Mitras have already been engaged across 12 coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh. These trained personnel serve as a vital link between the fisheries department and fishing communities, offering support in government schemes, ocean data interpretation, and fisheries management.
District-wise Deployment
Districts like SPSR Nellore (65 working Sagar Mitras), Srikakulam (55), and Bapatla (43) are among the highest in terms of current deployment, showcasing the state’s active efforts to bring government services closer to fishermen on the ground.
Real-Time Ocean Information through PFZ Advisories
To enhance fishing efficiency and reduce input costs, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories to Andhra Pradesh and other coastal states. These advisories help fishermen identify fish-rich areas at sea.
The state government, in collaboration with NGOs, disseminates this critical information through voice messages and IVRS, ensuring that even those without smartphones benefit from the updates. Additionally, the NABHMITRA mobile application enables fishers and boat owners to access real-time data on fish shoals.
So far, more than 1.23 lakh fishermen across districts like Kakinada (26,571), Konaseema (13,933), and Bapatla (13,957) have received PFZ alerts, enabling smarter and more sustainable fishing practices.
Fishermen Welfare Strengthened through Insurance and Ex-Gratia
The PMMSY also offers Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS) to registered fishers. Under this scheme, fishers are insured for ₹5 lakh in the event of death or permanent total disability, and ₹2.5 lakh for partial disability with no contribution required from the beneficiaries.
The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) reported that Andhra Pradesh has taken significant steps to enroll 2,58,515 fishers under GAIS for the financial year 2025-26. The total premium of ₹2.07 crore is jointly borne by the central and state governments.
In addition to this national scheme, the Andhra Pradesh government is offering an Ex-gratia of ₹10 lakh to the families of fishermen who lose their lives while at sea reflecting a strong commitment to safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of fishing communities.
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