Sagar Parikrama (Phase X) event being organized from 1st January 2024 to 6th January 2024

The 10th phase of Sagar Parikrama, a government initiative focused on the welfare of fishing communities and coastal development, took place from January 1st to 6th, 2024, traversing various locations in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry. This event marks a significant step towards addressing the issues faced by fishermen and fish farmers and facilitating their economic upliftment.

Ministerial Engagement and Stakeholder Participation

• Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Parshottam Rupala, along with Minister of State Dr. L Murugan, actively participated in the yatra, interacting with fishermen, fish farmers, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Campaigns on the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme and other initiatives were conducted across coastal districts, disseminating information and promoting financial inclusion among beneficiaries.
• State fisheries officials, fishermen representatives, scientists, entrepreneurs, and other key figures accompanied the event, fostering dialogue and collaboration.

A Legacy of Progress

• Since its inception in March 2022, Sagar Parikrama has covered nine coastal states and Union Territories, leaving a trail of positive impact.
• Phase X focused on the remaining coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, aiming to empower communities across Nellore, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, and other regions.

Andhra Pradesh’s Rich Potential

• Andhra Pradesh boasts immense potential in the fisheries sector, with a vast coastline, extensive continental shelf area, and numerous fishing villages and infrastructure.
• The Government of India’s flagship Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has earmarked Rs. 2300 crore for fisheries development projects in the state over five years.
• These projects encompass construction of fishing harbours and landing centres, cold storage facilities, deep-sea fishing vessels, hatcheries, and communication technologies, aiming to modernize and strengthen the sector.

Sagar Parikrama’s Impact

• The initiative serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare of fishing communities and coastal development.
• It acts as a platform for addressing challenges faced by stakeholders, facilitating their economic upliftment through access to schemes like PMMSY and KCC.
• By bringing ministers and senior officials closer to the communities, Sagar Parikrama provides a unique opportunity for open communication and understanding of local issues.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q1. What was the main objective of the 10th phase of Sagar Parikrama?
(a) To promote tourism in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry
(b) To focus on the welfare of fishing communities and coastal development
(c) To introduce new fishing techniques
(d) To conduct environmental studies

Q2. Which key ministers participated in the 10th phase of Sagar Parikrama?
(a) Union Minister of Agriculture
(b) Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
(c) Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(d) Minister of Rural Development

Q3. What areas did the 10th phase of Sagar Parikrama cover?
(a) Entire coastal region of India
(b) Specific districts in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry
(c) Only the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh
(d) Coastal regions of southern India

Q4. What is the significance of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme in relation to Sagar Parikrama?
(a) It provides educational scholarships
(b) It offers financial inclusion and support to fishermen
(c) It is unrelated to the Sagar Parikrama initiative
(d) It funds coastal development projects

Q5. Since its inception, how many coastal states and Union Territories has Sagar Parikrama covered?
(a) Three
(b) Six
(c) Nine
(d) Twelve

Please provide your answers in the comments section.