FFMA: A Revolutionary Decision Support System for Fishermen
The Pan India Fisher Friend Mobile Application (FFMA) is a game-changing Android-based app that provides fishermen with easy access to all the information they need related to fishing. Developed by the M.S Swaminathan Research Foundation in partnership with Qualcomm under its Wireless Reach Programme, FFMA serves as a crucial real-time decision-making support system for small craft resource-poor fishers. The app provides dynamic information that addresses the shore-to-shore knowledge requirements of the fishing community and enables them to undertake “informed decision and informed fishing” that can minimize risks and maximize profits.
The app is available in English as well as regional languages such as Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Odiya, Bangla, Kannada, Marathi, and Gujarati. It features GPS navigation to Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) and traditional fishing routes/zones, ocean state forecast information, alerts for cyclone, tsunami, and high waves, an SOS button for rescue in critical situations at sea, and government schemes and daily news of the district. Additionally, the app offers a media archive of fisheries-focused static content to enhance fishing efficiency, along with a calling facility and crucial contact details.
