Artificial Reef

• To promote sustainable practices, Department of Fisheries has sanctioned 732 artificial reef units for 10 coastal states with a total investment of Rs 126 crore as a sub-activity under “Integrated Modern Coastal Fishing Villages” of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• The projects are being implemented with the technical support of Fishery Survey of India (FSI) and ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
• Thus all projects are expected to be completed by January 2024.

ABOUT ARTIFICIAL REEFS

• Artificial reefs are engineering technology interventions used to rehabilitate and/or improve natural habitats, increase productivity and manage aquatic resources including habitat
• They are made from a variety of natural or synthetic materials, and come in an infinite number of shapes and styles.
• Advantages
  • ARs used for aggregating fish and provide a home for fish to live and grow, reduce wave damage on coasts, helps regeneration of marine ecosystem and act as a carbon sink.
  • Two to three-fold increase in catch rates and efficiency thus saving fuel and energy costs leading to increased income.
  • Provide a firm substrate for marine life such as corals, algae and plankton to attach to and grow
  • provide favorable conditions for sea ranching and serve as spawning and nursery grounds for fish.
  • Enhance recreational fisheries, snorkeling, eco-tourism, creating suitable areas for diving and reducing conflicts.

ABOUT PRADHAN MANTRI MATSYA SAMPADA YOJANA (PMMSY)

• PMMSY was launched in May 2020 with the highest ever investment of Rs. 20,050 crore to bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector.
• Implemented in all States and UTs for a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
• Umbrella scheme with Central Sector Scheme and Centrally Sponsored Scheme components—meaning that the Central government bears project cost and States/UTs share the cost of sub-components/activities.
• Motto– “Reform, Perform and Transform” in fisheries sector.