Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), Government of India, visited Ornamental Fisheries Brood Bank at Mangrul Village in Raigad, Maharashtra, established by Mrs. Yashodhara Sanjay Khandagale under PMMSY. 

Following the visit the union Secretary also interacted with beneficiaries of PMMSY to understand the gaps and challenges faced on ground.

The Brood Bank visited by the union secretary is first initiative of its kind in India, conserves and breeds more than 25 varieties of ornamental fish. Mrs. Yashodhara Sanjay Khandagale has successfully positioned her brand, “Sam Discus,” among the leading producers of high-quality discus fish in the country. 

The brood bank has produced approximately 7.7 lakh ornamental fish across 20 species, generating an estimated revenue of ₹1.93 crore and creating direct and indirect employment opportunities for around 25–30 individuals. 

Equipped with more than 700 tanks, the facility also supports skill development, employment generation, and the adoption of best practices, while contributing to export potential in the ornamental fisheries sector. This Brood Bank complies with regulatory standards and is covered under government schemes such as GAIS and NFDP. 

They export ornamental fish to USA, Italy, France, Mauritius, South Korea, Qatar, Kuwait, Malaysia, China, Uzbekistan, Nigeria and Israel. It reflects the effective utilization of government support in promoting innovation, sustainability, and growth in the fisheries sector.