Fish Production In Maharashtra Up By 47%; Govt Plans AI-Driven Push In Freshwater Fisheries

Last Updated:March 13, 2026, 14:04 IST

Maharashtra Fisheries Development Minister Nitesh Rane said that the government is using AI to boost freshwater fish production across the state.

The Maharashtra government has begun using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to boost freshwater fish production across the state, Fisheries Development Minister Nitesh Rane said in the Legislative Assembly while replying to discussions on budgetary demands.

Rane said the government has started mapping lakes and collecting accurate data on fish production using AI tools. The initiative is being carried out with the support of a private technology partner. The project aims to gather detailed information about lakes across the state and improve fish production through better planning and monitoring. According to the minister, many lakes, especially in regions such as Vidarbha and Marathwada, have been allotted to different institutions for the past 30 to 40 years. However, reliable data on the actual fish production in these water bodies has often been unavailable. Through AI-based mapping and digital monitoring, the government will now be able to assess production levels more accurately.

Once the data is collected, the government plans to work closely with lake operators and institutions to improve fish yields. Rane said this information will help authorities identify gaps and provide the necessary support to increase production. He also pointed out that removing accumulated silt from lakes can significantly improve fish output. According to government estimates, desilting of ponds and lakes alone can increase production by 20 to 30 per cent.

Maharashtra currently ranks 16th in the country in freshwater fish production. The state government now aims to improve this position by expanding infrastructure, improving data collection, and providing targeted support to fish farmers. Rane also announced that the state will launch the Chief Minister Fisheries Wealth Scheme, under which 28 new initiatives will be introduced. These include six state-level schemes and 19 district-level programmes aimed at strengthening the fisheries sector. The government has allocated ₹1,024 crore for these initiatives.

He added that in the past year, the fisheries sector has been given the status of agriculture in the state. According to reports from the central government, Maharashtra has recorded a 47 per cent increase in fish production over the last year. The government also plans to create employment opportunities through fisheries and port development projects. In Palghar district, where the upcoming Vadhavan Port is being developed, local youth are being trained through skill development programmes so they can benefit from future job opportunities in the region.

The state hopes that technology, targeted schemes and skill training will together strengthen Maharashtra’s fisheries sector and contribute to rural economic growth.

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