Wed Apr 16 18:22:25 UTC 2025: ## One Lakh Fishing Vessels to Receive Free Transponders for Enhanced Safety
**Puducherry, April 16, 2025** – The Indian government will equip approximately 100,000 fishing vessels nationwide with indigenously developed transponders, announced Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian. This initiative, part of the Prime Minister Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), aims to bolster the safety of fishermen. The free transponders, featuring real-time tracking and weather updates, will be initially installed on 3,023 vessels in Puducherry.
The announcement was made during the launch of several PMMSY projects in Puducherry, totaling ₹428 crore. These projects encompass harbor development, the distribution of deep-sea fishing vessels, seaweed cultivation promotion, and other livelihood support programs for the fishing community.
Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan emphasized the cultural significance of fishing and its importance to the nation’s economy. He highlighted the government’s efforts in boosting fish production and marine exports.
Chief Minister N. Rangasamy revealed plans to provide financial aid to children of fishermen pursuing education, mirroring existing support for students from socially backward communities.
Minister for Public Works and Fisheries K. Lakshminarayanan added that financial assistance to fishermen during fishing bans has increased from ₹6,500 to ₹8,000, with a notification to be released shortly. Monsoon assistance has also been raised to ₹6,000. The event was attended by the Lt. Governor and Chief Minister.
First Piper 