MP to Double Fish Production: CM Yadav Unveils Massive Cage Culture Plan
Madhya Pradesh aims to double fish production and set up one lakh cage culture units under the Integrated Fisheries Policy-2026.
Madhya Pradesh is gearing up to transform itself into a premier fisheries hub. During the National Fisheries Investors and Exporters Conclave-2026 held in Bhopal, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced an ambitious roadmap to double fish production in the state. This vision is anchored by the Integrated Fisheries Policy-2026, which focuses on driving investment, fostering innovation, and scaling up exports.
A Giant Leap: One Lakh Cage Culture Units
In a move to revolutionize aquaculture, the Chief Minister revealed plans to establish one lakh cage culture units across the state. To kickstart this initiative, the state's first public-private partnership (PPP)-based cage culture project, featuring 500 cages, was officially launched at the Barna Reservoir in the Raisen district.
The government intends to link the fisheries sector with food processing and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This integration is designed to enhance value addition, improve packaging and marketing, and generate significant employment opportunities for the local population.
Optimizing Water Resources for Growth
CM Mohan Yadav emphasized a multi-purpose approach to the state's water bodies. Beyond just fisheries, these resources will be developed for:
- Drinking water and irrigation.
- Livestock support and water tourism.
- Conservation of aquatic biodiversity.
Notably, the government plans to develop large water bodies even within protected forest areas. This strategy aims to provide drinking water for wildlife and replenish groundwater levels while simultaneously creating new opportunities for fish farming.
Support for Investors and Exporters
To attract industry players, the state has introduced the Madhya Pradesh Fisheries Investment and Export Guide-2026 and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for an export portal. Under the new policy, investors and fish producers will be provided with:
- Strategic land allotment.
- Comprehensive technical assistance.
- Various government incentives through MSME linkages.
Overcoming Challenges and Future Infrastructure
Addressing the global market, the Chief Minister touched upon the hurdles created by US tariffs on Indian fisheries exports, noting that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been instrumental in navigating these complexities.
Looking ahead, the state expects a massive boost in water infrastructure through the Ken-Betwa Link and the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) projects. These initiatives are expected to provide the necessary water capacity to sustain the projected growth in fish production.
The conclave saw the participation of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Union Minister of State S.P. Singh Baghel, who joined CM Yadav in handing over administrative approvals for the integrated development of Amrit Sarovars and reservoirs across Madhya Pradesh.