History

What is the history of Maharashtra State Fishermen Cooperative Federation?

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• This federation was founded in 1950 with the striving efforts of Shri. Chandraji Koli, Adv. Shantaram Vesavkar, Shri. Namdeo Vesa ar and others the Mumbai Rajya Shahkari Sangh. The federation started with fish wholesaling at Mahatma Phule Market.

• After formation of separate Maharashta State on 01st May, 1961, the federation was renamed as Maharashtra State Fishermen Cooperative Federation. The activities this federation used has to perform then were – fish selling, cotton fibre net shop, coir fibre and wholesale shops.

• In 1972, market renovation was done (Chatrapati Market). Fish sale was initiated at Bhausaheb Vartak wholesale market where license for fish sale were issued. In this market both marine and fresh water fishes were sold.

• During this time the federation became the apex body of fisheries cooperatives and 28 district fishermen cooperative federations became member of apex body.

• In 1983, the apex body started fish seed supply as per requirements of district federations and primary fishermen cooperative societies.

• During 2005, after introduction Value Added Tax (VAT), supply of nets and other material was stopped and the rights were handed over to district offices of state fisheries department.

• The objective of Maharashtra State Fishermen Cooperative Federation is to serve as a vital link between the entire fishermen’s cooperative sector.