World Fisheries Day

Indian fisheries sector

As the 3rd largest fish producer, 2nd largest aquaculture nation in the world after China and the largest producer of shrimp, India contributes significantly to both domestic food security and the global seafood market.
The Indian fisheries sector not only supports the livelihoods of around 30 million people, especially in coastal and rural communities, but it also holds immense potential for growth, job creation, and rural development.
In recent years, Indian fisheries have experienced a significant shift, moving from a marine-dominated sector to a greater focus on inland fisheries.
Recognized as a “sunrise sector,” it is poised to make a significant contribution to the Indian economy in the near future, driven by its vast potential for growth and development.
Initially dominated by marine fish production, the sector has seen a significant shift towards inland fisheries, which now contributes around 70% of the country’s total fish production.

Government Initiatives and Schemes to Promote Sustainable Fisheries

Blue Revolution Integrated Development and Management Fisheries Scheme or Blue Revolution Scheme:

Launched in FY 2015-16, the scheme primarily focused on increasing fish production and productivity.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):

Launched in 2020, it is a flagship initiative aimed at transforming India’s fisheries sector.
The scheme focuses on enhancing aquaculture productivity, improving fisheries management, and creating 55 lakh new jobs in the sector, along with big infrastructural changes of establishing five integrated aqua parks.
It also envisages doubling fisheries exports to 1 lakh crores.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF):

FIDF was introduced in 2018-19 to provide funding for the creation of infrastructure in both marine and inland fisheries.
FIDF loans can cover up to 80% of the project cost, with interest subvention of up to 3%.
This financial support is essential for fish farmers, entrepreneurs, and cooperatives looking to improve the infrastructure required to scale up production.

National Policy on Marine Fisheries (NPMF, 2017):

The Government of India has introduced the NPMF, which places a strong emphasis on sustainability as the core principle for all marine fisheries actions.
This policy guides the conservation and management of India’s marine fishery resources.

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