Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar has assured that the cold storage facility at the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) will be commissioned soon, stating that ₹29.78 crore has already been paid and funds for the remaining work are available.
The issue was raised in the Assembly by MLA Vijai Sardesai, who criticised the delay in completing the facility. Sardesai said the cold storage unit is crucial to extend the shelf life of fish and ensure it remains affordable for Goans, rather than becoming an expensive commodity catering mainly to tourists and VIPs.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that traditional occupations like fishing, which have been carried forward by generations of Goans, must be promoted in a hygienic and organised manner. He added that the state government will extend support to fishermen in the current financial year.
Sardesai also raised concerns over the rising price of fish in Goa and sought details from the government on the causes behind the price increase as well as the proposed subsidised fish scheme for consumers.
Responding to the query, the Chief Minister said that several schemes are available under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the state government is prepared to provide additional support if required.
Fisheries Minister Halarnkar informed the House that out of 50 deep-sea fishing boat owners, 21 have applied for benefits under the scheme and five applications have been approved this year.
Meanwhile, MLA Venzy Viegas urged the government to develop a systematic platform to ensure fresh fish is easily available to people, suggesting that the state should explore doorstep delivery or easier access for consumers.
