Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 15: Mr. S U Maheswar Rao, Chairman, Andaman & Nicobar Fisheries Cooperative Federation Ltd. (ANIFCOFED) has expressed its sincere gratitude to the Government of India, particularly the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, for extending the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) until December 31, 2026, or until approval of the schemes for the 16th Finance Commission cycle by the competent authority, whichever is earlier.
In an official communication dated October 8, 2026, the Department of Fisheries conveyed administrative approval for the extension of both schemes, providing continued support for the development of the fisheries sector across the country.
On behalf of ANIFCOFED, Chairman S. U. Maheswar Rao conveyed his sincere thanks to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Home Minister, & Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Ministry, and the Government of India for this important decision.
He stated that the extension of PMMSY will help sustain ongoing fisheries development initiatives, promote the welfare of fishermen, strengthen fisheries cooperatives, and support infrastructure development in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The extension of FIDF is also significant for strengthening fisheries infrastructure, improving facilities for fish landing and marketing, and supporting the long-term growth of the fisheries sector.
The official communication specifies a central budget allocation of ₹2,500 crore for PMMSY and ₹30 crore for FIDF for the financial year 2026–27, with spending limits of ₹1,875 crore and ₹22.50 crore, respectively, during the extended period up to December 31, 2026. Implementation will remain subject to the prescribed financial guidelines and conditions.
ANIFCOFED expressed hope that the continued implementation of these schemes would benefit fishermen, fish vendors, fish farmers, and fisheries cooperative societies throughout the islands. The Federation also urged the concerned authorities to ensure effective implementation of the schemes and facilitate eligible beneficiaries in accessing the available support.
S. U. Maheswar Rao reiterated ANIFCOFED’s commitment to working with the Central Government and the A&N Administration to strengthen the fisheries sector and improve the livelihoods of the fishing community.
