In recognition of the vital contribution of fish farmers and fisherfolk to India’s food security and rural livelihoods, the National Fish Farmers Day 2025 will be celebrated on July 10 at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The event will honor their unwavering efforts in strengthening the nation’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
The ceremony will be graced by Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, as the chief guest. He will be joined by Minister of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Minister of State Shri George Kurian, and Odisha’s Fisheries Minister Shri Gokulananda Mallik.
Honoring a Historic Scientific Breakthrough
National Fish Farmers Day is celebrated annually in memory of the groundbreaking achievement of Dr. Hiralal Chaudhuri and Dr. K.H. Alikunhi, who in 1957 successfully developed the induced breeding technique (hypophysation) for Indian Major Carps. This pioneering work laid the foundation for a revolution in inland fisheries in India.
A Tribute to the Backbone of the Blue Economy
The day serves as a tribute to the millions of fish farmers and fisherfolk who play a crucial role in providing nutritious food, generating employment, and contributing to the Blue Economy. Today, fisheries have become a key source of income for rural communities and a strategic pillar in India’s food production system.
Major Growth in Fisheries Production and Exports
According to data shared by the Ministry of Fisheries, India’s total fish production has witnessed a dramatic rise from 95.79 lakh tonnes in 2013-14 to 195 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, marking a 104% increase. Inland aquaculture alone has grown by over 140% during this period.
Additionally, marine product exports have surpassed ₹60,500 crore, with shrimp production increasing by an impressive 270%. Since 2015, the Central Government has invested ₹38,572 crore in the sector to promote modernization, infrastructure development, and entrepreneurship.
Key Announcements and Activities at the Event
On this occasion, the Union Minister is expected to unveil several initiatives to further empower the fisheries sector:
- Launch of new Fishery Clusters
- Release of the ICAR Fisheries Training Calendar
- Issuance of guidelines for seed certification and hatchery operations
- Virtual foundation laying of new projects under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
- Awards and recognition for outstanding fish farmers, cooperatives, FPOs, and startups
The event will also include technical sessions where senior officials, fisheries scientists, state representatives, and aquapreneurs will deliberate on latest technologies, best practices, and future strategies to enhance productivity and sustainability.
A Salute to India’s Aquaculture Champions
The Department of Fisheries extended its heartfelt appreciation to all fish farmers and fisherfolk across the country whose relentless hard work has helped India emerge as one of the world’s leading fish-producing nations. National Fish Farmers Day stands as a powerful tribute to their contributions and a symbol of the government’s commitment to their progress and welfare.
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