Mumbai, May 10 -- In a landmark move, the Maharashtra government has officially accorded agriculture status to the fisheries sector, aiming to provide substantial benefits to the state's fishing communities.

A Government Resolution (GR) issued on Friday confirms that fish farmers and related stakeholders will now be eligible for various agricultural subsidies and schemes.

This decision enables fish farmers to access electricity concessions, Kisan Credit Cards, and bank loans at agricultural rates.Additionally, they will benefit from low-cost insurance and solar energy initiatives.

The GR also introduces formal definitions for roles within the fisheries sector, including fishermen, fishery cultivators, fish businessmen, fish seed produc...