India's Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector
The fisheries and aquaculture sector in India is rapidly growing, supported by increasing global confidence in Indian seafood quality, which opens up new export opportunities.
National Launch of Letters of Authorisation (LoA)
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan highlighted the national launch of LoA for sustainable fisheries in high seas, which aims to boost India's maritime economy by allowing sustainable utilization of marine resources beyond the exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
- The initiative strengthens Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs), cooperatives, and individual fishermen.
- Encourages sustainable deep-sea and high-seas fishing, improving access to high-value fish resources and enhancing community incomes.
Maritime Resources and Policy Framework
With over 11,000 km of coastline and an EEZ of nearly 24 lakh sq km, India's marine wealth is underutilized as fishing remains near the coast.
- The policy encourages fishermen to explore deeper waters, targeting high-value species like tuna and reducing coastal fishing pressure.
Current Status of Indian Fisheries
- India is the second-largest fish producer globally, contributing 8% to global fish production.
- The sector supports the livelihoods of nearly three crore fishermen and fish farmers.
- Seafood exports reached over Rs 73,000 crore in the last financial year.
High-Seas Fishing Initiative
This initiative is expected to strengthen India's global seafood market position, create employment across the value chain, and enhance export services.
Government Investments and Growth
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the LoA as a milestone, enhancing high-seas fisheries potential through a transparent online system.
- Rs 39,000 crore investments in the sector led to over 100% growth in fish production and record seafood exports.
Odisha's Contribution
Dharmendra Pradhan noted Odisha's significant role in seafood exports, with potential in brackish-water aquaculture and deep-sea fisheries.
- The Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission (2026-2036) aims to transform the state into a modern marine export hub.
- Investment in fisheries infrastructure supports value addition and exports.
In conclusion, the Vice President unveiled the Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission document and distributed LoAs to 10 FFPOs.
