Raipur . The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is emerging as a powerful vehicle for self-employment and self-reliance in rural areas. A powerful example of this scheme is Mr. Harishankar Patel, a resident of Kalmi village in the Raigarh development block. He has not only strengthened his financial situation by taking advantage of the government's scheme, but has also established himself as a successful and self-reliant fish farmer in the field of fish farming. Mr. Harishankar Patel, who has been involved in fish farming for nearly five years, took advantage of the "Construction of Ponds on Own Land" scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). He began scientific fish farming by constructing a pond on his private land, measuring 0.607 hectares. As a fish farmer from the general category, he received a 40 percent subsidy under the scheme, which significantly assisted in pond construction and initial arrangements.

The Fisheries Department provided him with fish seeds of improved species such as Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal at a 50 percent subsidy. Additionally, he also stocked Pangas and Rupchanda fish seeds using his own resources, diversifying his production and creating new income opportunities. Mr. Patel fishes between November and January each year.

The fish he produces, Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal, sell for ₹160 to ₹180 per kilogram, Rupchanda for ₹130 per kilogram, and Pangas for ₹110 per kilogram. Due to improved management, timely seed collection, and scientific practices, his pond consistently yields excellent production. Currently, Mr. Harishankar Patel is producing approximately 60 to 70 quintals of fish annually, earning him a net profit of ₹250,000 to ₹300,000 annually. This income is not only strengthening his family's financial situation but also leading him towards a self-reliant life. As a successful beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, Harishankar Patel has become an inspiration for other fish farmers. His success demonstrates that if government schemes are leveraged in the right direction and in a scientific manner, a respectable income and sustainable employment can be achieved even while living in rural areas.