Indian Geography

Model Answer

Introduction

The “Blue Revolution” signifies the sustainable growth of fisheries and aquaculture to meet increasing seafood demands while preserving marine ecosystems. This initiative aims to enhance food security and improve livelihoods within fishing communities, particularly in India, where aquaculture plays a vital role.

Problems of Pisciculture Development in India

1. Lack of Infrastructure: India faces significant challenges due to inadequate infrastructure, including insufficient fish hatcheries and processing facilities. This limits fish farmers’ ability to produce and market their products effectively.
2. Limited Access to Credit: Many fish farmers struggle to obtain credit, hindering their capacity to invest in essential infrastructure and expand operations.
3. Poor Quality Fish Seed: The quality of fish seed often leads to high mortality and low growth rates, attributed to inadequate breeding and selection techniques.
4. Water Scarcity: Water scarcity poses a significant challenge, compounded by pollution in many rivers, making it difficult to maintain clean water for fish farming.
5. Lack of Skilled Manpower: There is a shortage of trained professionals in aquaculture, which affects the production of high-quality fish products.
6. Low Profitability: High production costs and low market prices result in limited profitability for many fish farmers.

Strategies for Pisciculture Development in India

1. Data Improvement: Strengthening the database for freshwater and brackish water aquaculture is crucial for effective policy analysis, as evidenced by studies in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
2. Leveraging Technology: Utilizing information technology, such as remote sensing and GIS, can improve planning and monitoring of aquaculture, minimizing ecological impacts.
3. Enhancing Breeding and Nutrition: Investing in breeding technology and disease control, combined with traditional knowledge, can enhance efficiency in fish farming.
4. Financial Support: Financial institutions should facilitate credit flow to the aquaculture sector, considering ecological factors and regulatory frameworks.
5. Regulatory Measures: Developing and enforcing legal measures for aquaculture in ecologically sensitive areas is essential for sustainable practices.

Conclusion

With its vast fish diversity, India has the potential to lead in global fish production. A sustainable approach to pisciculture is crucial for addressing food insecurity while catering to socio-economic needs, ensuring a balanced ecosystem and community livelihoods.

Model Answer

Introduction

Launched in 2018, the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) aims to transform India’s most backward districts by focusing on key areas like health, education, agriculture, financial inclusion, and infrastructure. This initiative seeks to uplift living standards and promote inclusive development.

Strategies for Transformation

1. Convergence of Central and State Schemes:
   • Fact: The ADP emphasizes the integration of various central and state schemes at the district level to enhance their effectiveness.
2. Collaborative Effort:
   • Fact: The programme fosters collaboration among district officials, citizens, and NGOs to ensure that development initiatives are comprehensive and inclusive.
3. Citizen-Centric Approach:
   • Fact: By focusing on citizen needs, the ADP aims to improve the quality of life in aspirational districts through a people-centric approach.
4. Innovation:
   • Fact: The use of innovative solutions and technology is encouraged to drive development in these districts, promoting sustainable practices.
5. Monitoring and Feedback:
   • Fact: Regular monitoring and feedback mechanisms are established to ensure effective implementation and adaptability of programmes.

Nature of Convergence, Collaboration, and Competition

• Role of NITI Aayog: As the anchor institution, NITI Aayog coordinates efforts while individual ministries and district administrations drive local progress.
• Central Prabhari Officer: Each district is overseen by an officer of Additional Secretary/Joint Secretary rank to ensure accountability and implementation.
• State-Level Committees: Chief Secretaries lead committees to facilitate effective programme execution, supported by nodal and Prabhari officers.
• Empowered Committee: An Empowered Committee, led by the CEO of NITI Aayog, ensures scheme convergence and addresses specific challenges.
• Delta Ranking: NITI Aayog releases a delta ranking for districts, fostering competition among teams striving for development, thus motivating better performance.

Conclusion

The transformation of aspirational districts in India hinges on a multi-faceted approach involving convergence, collaboration, and competition among stakeholders. Successful implementation of ADP strategies can significantly enhance development in these disadvantaged areas, driving sustainable and inclusive growth.