Madhya Pradesh has large rivers, reservoirs and water bodies. If these resources are managed well, they can provide drinking water, irrigation, livestock support and a source of income through fisheries. The state’s new Integrated Fisheries Policy 2026 seeks to use this potential by doubling fish production and linking aquaculture with processing, investment and exports.
The government has set a target of establishing one lakh cage culture units across the state. The launch of 500 cage culture units in the Barna reservoir in Raisen district, through a public-private partnership model, is an early step in this direction. Cage culture can help increase production in large water bodies, but it must be planned carefully to protect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
The policy also aims to connect fish farming with food processing, packaging, marketing and micro, small and medium enterprises. This is important because higher production alone will not improve incomes unless farmers have dependable collection, cold storage, processing and market access. Fish producers, transporters, traders and exporters all need to be part of a working value chain.
Water management is central to this effort. The state says irrigation coverage has risen to 69 lakh hectares and aims to take it to one crore hectares. Projects such as river linking and new water structures can support fisheries, but they must also safeguard the needs of drinking water, agriculture, wildlife and local communities. A water body should not be treated as a source of only one benefit.
The goal of raising fish production from 4.45 lakh tonnes to 10 lakh tonnes in three years is ambitious. Achieving it will require quality fish seed, feed, veterinary support, training and reliable credit for fish farmers. Investment and export promotion are welcome, but small producers must receive a fair share of the gains.
Fisheries can become an important source of rural income if the state builds a complete system: healthy water bodies, modern aquaculture, processing facilities and strong markets. The challenge now is to turn policy announcements into practical support for those who depend on fishing for their livelihood.
