Sudhangshu Das has urged the Centre to revise the funding pattern under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for Northeastern states from the existing 60:40 ratio to 90:10, saying the present model places financial pressure on small and marginal farmers in the region.
Das raised the issue while addressing a regional review meeting held in Aizawl. The meeting was attended by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister of State George Kurian, ministers from Northeastern states and senior officials.
The Tripura minister said the unique geographical and economic conditions of the Northeast required a more supportive funding structure under central schemes related to fisheries and livestock development.
He also requested the Centre to ensure timely release of PMMSY funds before September each year so that fisheries projects and infrastructure works could be implemented smoothly during the operational season in the state.
According to Das, delayed release of funds affects pond construction, maintenance work and fisheries infrastructure development, as Tripura’s working season for such projects generally runs between September and March.
The minister sought dedicated financial support for pond creation and maintenance, stating that fisheries development remains important for employment generation and rural livelihoods in the region.
Highlighting the role of the fisheries and livestock sectors, Das said these sectors are closely linked to income generation, nutritional security and agricultural development in rural areas.
“Regional review platforms play a vital role in strengthening coordination among states,” he said, adding that such meetings help accelerate development initiatives in the fisheries and animal resources sectors across the Northeast.
Referring to initiatives taken by the Tripura government under the leadership of Manik Saha, Das said the state had launched the Mukhyamantri Matsya Vikas Yojana to promote fisheries activities through pond creation and distribution of fishery inputs.
He said the Northeast has strong potential in meat, egg and milk production, although some gaps still remain in dairy and poultry output.
According to the minister, Tripura has already achieved surplus meat production and no longer depends on other states for supply. However, he said milk and egg production still require major improvement.
Das also highlighted the recurring impact of floods in Northeastern states and stressed the need for flexible and timely financial support for fisheries and livestock activities, which are often disrupted during natural disasters.
