·       India holds a significant position in the global fisheries sector, ranking as the 3rd largest fish-producing and 2nd largest aquaculture-producing nation.

·       Furthermore, India’s standing as the 4th largest exporter of fish and fisheries products underscores its role in the international market. The notable growth in exports between FY 2021-22 and FY 2022-23, at a rate of 26.73%, reflects the increasing demand for Indian seafood products globally.

·       Employment within the fisheries sector is substantial, providing livelihoods for over 30 million people across the country.

·       The Department of Fisheries, operating under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, oversees the implementation of various schemes and initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable and responsible development within the fisheries sector. Among these initiatives, the flagship scheme “Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)” stands out as a key driver for the sector’s growth and modernization.

Challenges of the Fisheries Sector in India

·       The overexploitation of fish stocks due to excessive fishing pressure poses a significant challenge to the sustainability of the fisheries sector.

·       Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing activities undermine efforts to manage and conserve fish stocks, leading to depletion and imbalance within ecosystems.

·       Inadequate infrastructure, including storage and transportation facilities, hampers the efficiency of the fisheries supply chain.

·       Weak enforcement of regulations, coupled with limited data on fish stocks, impedes effective fisheries management.

·       Pollution from industrial activities, coastal development, and agricultural runoff poses a threat to marine and freshwater habitats.

·       Climate change-induced phenomena such as rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events disrupt fish populations and fisheries ecosystems.

·       Poverty, lack of alternative livelihood options, and unequal distribution of resources contribute to the vulnerability of fishing communities.

Government Initiatives for the Growth of the Sector

 ·       NFDB (National Fisheries Development Board): Established in 2006, it plans and promotes fisheries development in India, implementing schemes to enhance fish production and support fishers/farmers.

·       PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana): Launched in 2020, it focuses on boosting fish production and doubling farmers’ income by modernizing infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices, and improving post-harvest management.

·       Blue Revolution: Started in 2015, it aims at sustainable fisheries development by increasing fish production through modern technologies, infrastructure enhancement, entrepreneurship promotion, and governance strengthening.

·       Sagarmala Programme: Introduced in 2015, it fosters port-led development and supports the maritime sector by developing fishing harbours, cold chain infrastructure, and fish processing facilities.

·       National Fisheries Policy (2020): Provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable fisheries development, emphasizing responsible management, biodiversity conservation, increased production, and socio-economic upliftment.

·       FFDAs (Fish Farmers Development Agencies): Operational at the district level, they offer technical guidance, training, and extension services to fish farmers, facilitating access to credit, inputs, and promoting entrepreneurship.

·       CAA (Coastal Aquaculture Authority): Regulates and promotes sustainable coastal aquaculture, formulating guidelines for shrimp farming, monitoring land use, and ensuring compliance with environmental norms to protect coastal ecosystems.

Top of Form

 Way Forward

·       Collaboration among government agencies, fishery stakeholders, civil society, and the private sector is crucial to tackle challenges in the fisheries sector effectively.

·       To ensure the long-term viability of India’s fisheries sector, it’s essential to implement sustainable management practices, invest in infrastructure and technology, strengthen governance, promote community-based approaches, and address the impacts of climate change.