Jharsuguda: During a visit to Jharsuguda district today, the Honourable Minister for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development highlighted the government’s continued commitment to empowering rural communities through fisheries, animal husbandry, and agriculture.
The minister reviewed departmental progress at three different locations in the district, accompanied by senior officials from the Fisheries Department, Animal Resources Development, and allied departments, as well as the District Collector and bank officials.
Speaking at the gathering, the minister stated, “Our goal is to reach people at the grassroots level. Agriculture, along with fisheries and livestock, offers strong alternative income sources for rural households. These sectors can enhance farmers’ earnings and make youth self-reliant.”
He added that to boost fish, poultry, duck, and livestock production in the district, the government is offering subsidies and multiple support schemes. “Whether it’s egg production, goat rearing, or establishing dairy farms and fish hatcheries — the government is extending financial support and technical guidance to ensure rural livelihoods are strengthened,” he said.
Referring to flagship schemes like Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana, Mukhyamantri Matsya Kalyan Yojana, and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, the minister noted that fish farmers are receiving subsidies for feed, cold storage, insulated vans, and market linkage support.
“Under the leadership of the Chief Minister and Prime Minister, we aim to see India become a developed nation by 2046, and Odisha a prosperous, developed state. Our efforts in the fisheries and MSME sectors are aligned with this vision,” he remarked.
Highlighting the role of the MSME sector, the minister said that the state government is actively working to encourage youth entrepreneurship. Startups, MSME parks, and training programmes are being promoted. Young entrepreneurs are being supported with grants, marketing support, and procurement linkages through government initiatives.
“Startups led by our youth are flourishing, and the government is taking up the responsibility of improving their facilities and expanding their reach through schemes like One District One Product,” he said.
In closing, the minister said, This is a government of the people. Every initiative and every policy is designed to uplift the common citizen. We are confident that in the coming days, this department will lead the way in the development of Jharsuguda and the state as a whole.”
