Mumbai, April 23 -- In a landmark move, the Maharashtra cabinet on Tuesday granted agriculture status to the fisheries sector, a decision set to benefit over 4.8 lakh fishermen across the state.

The move, hailed as "historic and revolutionary" by State Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane, is expected to significantly enhance fish production and support rural livelihoods.

Until now, fishermen, aqua-culturists, and fish farmers were excluded from key agricultural benefits. With this new status, they will now be eligible for subsidies and facilities similar to those provided to traditional farmers, including access to water, electricity, and insurance schemes.

"This decision brings fishermen on par with farmers," said Rane. "They can now avail...