India’s vast coastal regions have long been a source of livelihood, nutrition, and employment for millions of fishermen and fish farmers. Recognizing the pivotal role of these communities, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, is set to preside over a momentous event – the “National Conference on KCC for Fisheries” on September 4, 2023, at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This conference, jointly organized by the Department of Fisheries (DoF) and the Department of Animal Husbandry Dairying (DAHD), aims to address pressing issues faced by the fishing communities.
Dignitaries and Participants
The event will be graced by eminent dignitaries, including Minister of State, MoFAH&D, Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State, Ministry of Finance, Dr. Bhagwat Kishanrao Karad, Minister for Fisheries, Govt. of Maharashtra, Shri Sudhir Mungantiwar, and Minister for Revenue, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy Development, Govt. of Maharashtra, Shri Radhakrishna Eknathrao Vikhepatil. The presence of high-ranking officials, including Secretary, DAHD, Ms. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, DoF, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, and other key representatives, will make the conference a convergence of expertise and insights.
Representatives from Fisheries Departments of various States/Union Territories, the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and stakeholders from across the nation, including KCC beneficiaries, fishermen, fish farmers, and entrepreneurs, are expected to participate. The conference will be organized in a hybrid mode to accommodate around 500 participants.
KCC Distribution and Interaction
A pivotal aspect of this conference is the distribution of Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to eligible fishers and fishermen. Minister of FAH&D will personally oversee this distribution and interact with the beneficiaries. These interactions are expected to pave the way for addressing concerns and devising long-term, practical solutions to streamline the credit flow, simplifying processes and introducing checks and balances.
Recognizing the Significance of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Fisheries and aquaculture are integral sources of food, nutrition, and employment, supporting the livelihoods of approximately 2.8 crore fishers and fishermen. Over the past decade, the sector has exhibited substantial growth. One key focus area has been ensuring access to institutional finance for small-scale fisheries’ stakeholders.
The Role of Kisan Credit Card in Fisheries
To facilitate working capital requirements for fisheries and animal husbandry farmers, the Government extended the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme in 2018-19. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued guidelines on KCC for fishers and fish farmers on February 4, 2019. To streamline credit delivery through KCC to Animal Husbandry and Fisheries farmers, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)/Guidelines was issued, in consultation with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of AHDF, RBI, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), and Indian Bank’s Association (IBA).
Mobilizing Beneficiaries and Boosting KCC Uptake
The Department of Fisheries has been actively engaging with States/Union Territories and State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) to raise awareness about the KCC facility among fishers and fish farmers. Despite numerous challenges, all States/UTs and SLBC are actively involved in enhancing awareness about the benefits of KCC through campaigns, outreach, and promotional activities.
As a result of these concerted efforts, over 1.49 lakh Kisan Credit Cards have been issued to fishers and fish farmers nationwide.
Strengthening the KCC Initiative
To further bolster the KCC initiative, the Department of Fisheries organized a special drive for KCC applications from June 1 to December 31, 2020. A nationwide campaign, led by Minister of FAH&D, from November 15, 2021, to July 31, 2022, demonstrated the commitment to KCC outreach. This “Nationwide AHDF KCC Campaign” resumed on September 15, 2022, and continues until March 31, 2024.
Promoting Financial Inclusion and Growth
The Kisan Credit Card represents a powerful tool for financial inclusion and collaboration, encompassing sectors like agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, and dairying. It reflects the joint determination of the central and state entities to support their farmers and promote equitable growth. As the “National Conference on KCC for Fisheries” unfolds, it promises to be a pivotal moment in ensuring the well-being and financial security of India’s fishing communities.