Maharashtra News: State Cooperative Bank Allocates ₹1,000 Crore For Fisherfolk Welfare, Minister Nitesh Rane Leads Initiative

Mumbai: In a significant development for the recently recognized farmer community of fisherfolk in Maharashtra, the State Cooperative Bank has announced a provision of ₹1,000 crore dedicated to their welfare. The announcement was made during a meeting held at the State Cooperative Bank headquarters.

Present at the meeting were Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane, PDUAM Secretary Dr. Ramaswami N, Fisheries Commissioner Kishor Taware, State Cooperative Bank Administrator Vidhyadhar Anaskar, Managing Director Dilip Dighe, and Sindhudurg District Bank President Manish Dalvi, among others.

Following the official classification of fisheries under the agriculture sector, Minister Rane has been taking proactive steps to enhance the livelihoods of fisherfolk. Today's meeting was part of that ongoing effort. During the session, the need for financial support for modern boats, equipment, cold storage facilities, and fishing nets was emphasized.

Minister Rane directed that credit schemes be formulated through the State Cooperative Bank and district banks to meet these needs. He also stressed the importance of designing schemes specifically aimed at supporting women in the fishing community.

State Cooperative Bank Administrator Anaskar assured full support for the initiative and committed to maximizing financial assistance to the fisherfolk.

This development is expected to provide a major boost to the fisheries sector and improve the standard of living for fishing communities across the state.