Maharashtra to Transform Fish Markets with E-Rickshaw Initiative

Maharashtra Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane announced a proposal for a 'fish vending e-rickshaw scheme' to modernize fish retail markets, offering up to 90% subsidy to beneficiaries. This initiative aims to improve fish quality and earnings for fishermen, with an estimated project cost of Rs 4 lakh per beneficiary.

Maharashtra Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane on Tuesday said the state government is considering a proposal to introduce a 'fish vending e-rickshaw scheme' aimed at modernising fish retail markets and improving earnings for fishermen.

Speaking at a meeting held at Mantralaya here, Rane said the proposal includes providing up to 90 per cent subsidy to beneficiaries under the Fisheries Department's fish vending stall scheme and implementing an e-rickshaw-based fish vending model.

He said the initiative is intended to create a cleaner, modern and customer-friendly fish marketing system across rural and urban areas.

According to officials, the proposed project cost under the scheme is around Rs 4 lakh per beneficiary.

Rane said Amravati district currently has 80 registered fisheries cooperative societies with around 500 to 700 active members engaged in retail fish sales. However, inadequate infrastructure and unhygienic conditions in existing fish markets affect fish quality and reduce returns for fishermen.

'The government is trying to move fishermen from traditional selling practices to a modern and hygienic business model. The Fish Vending E-Rickshaw Scheme will give a new dimension to fish marketing. Customers will get better quality fish, while fishermen's incomes are also expected to rise,' the minister added.