Sukhpal Singh, a resilient fish farmer from Bahadur Khera village near Abohar, received national recognition from Minister of Fisheries Rajiv Ranjan Singh during the fourth-anniversary celebrations of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Delhi.
The PMMSY, launched to foster sustainable and responsible growth within India’s fisheries sector, envisions a transformative “Blue Revolution.” This initiative aims to enhance the livelihoods of millions by promoting aquaculture and ensuring environmental stewardship.
Sukhpal Singh’s story epitomizes the success that PMMSY strives to achieve. Once burdened by debt and struggling with traditional farming methods, Singh embarked on a transformative journey in 2013. With unwavering determination and the support of the Fisheries Department, he shifted from conventional agriculture to aquaculture. Starting with a modest 2.5-acre fish farm, he rapidly expanded his operations to 10 acres by 2014 and eventually to 20 acres, specializing in shrimp farming.
“The transition was challenging, but the technical training and subsidies provided by the Fisheries Department were instrumental,” Singh shared. His strategic move to shrimp farming not only revitalized his farm but also yielded impressive profits, averaging ₹2.0 lakh per acre annually. This financial turnaround has made Singh a beacon of hope and an inspiration for fellow farmers in the region.
Singh’s success has had a ripple effect, transforming Bahadur Khera and its surrounding areas into one of Punjab’s premier hubs for shrimp farming. His achievements underscore the immense potential of the fisheries sector as a lucrative and sustainable business, significantly enhancing both economic stability and social well-being in the community.
The Fisheries Department’s comprehensive support has been pivotal in helping farmers like Singh overcome formidable challenges, including saline-affected infertile lands and crippling debts. Empowered by this assistance, these farmers are not only thriving but also contributing to the nation’s growth by paying income taxes and setting positive examples for others to emulate.
Deputy Director Kewal Krishan lauded Singh’s accomplishments, emphasizing the department’s ongoing commitment to providing subsidies and support to farmers transitioning to fish farming. “Sukhpal Singh’s journey from a debt-ridden farmer to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to what can be achieved with the right guidance and support,” Krishan stated.
Reflecting on his journey, Sukhpal Singh expressed heartfelt gratitude. “I am grateful to the Fisheries Department for their guidance and support,” he said. “Adopting shrimp culture has transformed my life, and I hope my story encourages others to explore this lucrative opportunity.”
As PMMSY marks its fourth year, stories like Singh’s highlight the scheme’s success in driving sustainable development and economic empowerment within India’s fisheries sector. With continued support and dedication, the vision of a Blue Revolution in India seems not only achievable but also a source of inspiration for countless others across the nation.
