TURA, Feb 18: The Office of the Superintendent of Fisheries in Ampati, South West Garo Hills, launched the National Fisheries Digital Platform Empowerment Programme, taking a step towards digitally transforming the fisheries sector in Meghalaya.
The program aimed to equip fishermen and fish farmers with digital tools and knowledge to boost productivity, ensure sustainable practices, and connect them with broader markets nationwide.
Superintendent of Fisheries, Ampati, Risa VC Sangma, stressed on the critical role of digital empowerment in modernising the fisheries sector. She highlighted the National Fisheries Digital Platform as a centralised hub for real-time information sharing, access to government schemes, weather forecasts, market trends, and sustainable fishing practices.
The initiative aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission (MSAM), aiming to improve the socio-economic status of fishermen and fish farmers while ensuring aquatic biodiversity conservation.
During the event, participants received digital platform demonstrations and training. They learned to access market prices, track weather updates, and apply for government schemes using user-friendly mobile apps.
The event also featured on-spot registration of fishermen and fish farmers on the National Fisheries Digital Platform, facilitated by the Common Service Centre (CSC), Ampati. Essential inputs like fish seeds, fish feed, and equipment were distributed to eligible beneficiaries under MSAM and PMMSY.
Beneficiaries shared their experiences, expressing optimism about the digital platform’s potential to streamline processes, reduce dependence on middlemen, and facilitate better market access.
The technical team demonstrated the platform’s key features, including real-time market price updates, weather alerts, scheme information, and knowledge-sharing forums.
The event concluded with a strong message about the transformative potential of digital platforms in the fisheries sector, empowering participants with knowledge and tools while facilitating direct registration on the platform.
