April 1, 2026

 

Pond mapping, desilting could support higher fish output in Maharashtra, India, fisheries minister says

 

 

Technology-led pond mapping and desilting could help raise fish output across Maharashtra, India, said Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane.

 

The Maharashtra government plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) technology to strengthen freshwater fisheries production by mapping ponds and improving water body management across the state.

 

Fisheries Development Minister Nitesh Rane informed the Legislative Assembly this month that the state has begun compiling data on ponds using AI-based tools. The initiative is aimed at generating accurate information on water bodies and assessing their fish production potential.

 

According to the minister, many ponds—particularly in Vidarbha and Marathwada—were allotted to institutions nearly three to four decades ago, but reliable data on their current fish production remains limited. The AI-driven mapping exercise is expected to help the government obtain detailed information on these water bodies.

 

Rane said the data collected will enable the government to engage with institutions and pond operators to identify measures that can increase fish output. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen freshwater aquaculture in the state.

 

The government is also focusing on improving the productivity of existing water bodies by addressing structural challenges such as silt accumulation. Rane noted that desilting ponds could significantly improve fish yields, adding that the process alone could raise production by around 20–30%.

 

Despite having extensive inland water resources, Maharashtra currently ranks 16th in the country in freshwater fisheries production. The state aims to improve this ranking by strengthening aquaculture practices and improving the management of ponds and reservoirs.

 

To support the sector's expansion, the state has launched the Chief Minister Matsyasampada Yojana. The programme includes 28 initiatives, comprising six state-level schemes and 19 district-level schemes, aimed at boosting fish production, improving infrastructure and supporting fish farmers.

 

Rane also said that the fisheries sector in Maharashtra was accorded agriculture status over the past year, allowing fish farmers to access benefits and support available to the agricultural sector.

 

According to a report by the central government, fish production in the state has increased by about 47% in recent years. The government sees the fisheries sector as an important contributor to rural economic growth and employment, particularly in regions with significant inland water resources.

- BW Businessworld