Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: INDIA is the second-largest fish producing country with around 8 per cent share in global fish production. Over the past two decades, its fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth and transformation. From technological advancements to policy reforms, the period from 2004 to 2024 has been marked by milestones that have bolstered the country’s position in global fisheries and aquaculture.
The Union Budget 2025-26, proposed the highest ever total annual budgetary support of Rs 2,703.67 crore for the fisheries sector. This is a testament to India’s achievement as a leader in aquaculture and seafood exports! The Budget announcement strategically focused on enhancing financial inclusion, reducing financial burden on farmers by reducing custom duties and furthering development of the marine fisheries.
Additionally, The Budget highlighted enabling a framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and High Seas with special focus on Lakshadweep and A&N Islands. This will ensure sustainable harnessing of the untapped potential of the marine fish resources in the Indian EEZ and adjacent High Seas for growth in the marine sector.
Decades of success
Fish production increased to an impressive 184.02 lakh tonnes (2023-24) from 95.79 lakh tonnes (2013-14) and 63.99 lakh tonnes (2003-04) registering an increase of 88.23 lakh tonnes in 10 years (2014-24) as compared to an increase of 31.80 lakh tons (2004-14).
A tremendous increase of 77.71 lakh tonnes was achieved in inland and aquaculture fish production from 2014-24 as against the 26.78 lakh tonnes achieved from 2004- 14. The marine fish production doubled to 10.52 lakh tonnes (2004-14) from 5.02 lakh tonnes (2014-24).
The Blue Revolution scheme was the first step towards making the fisheries sector economically viable and robust. With its multi-dimensional activities, Blue Revolution focuses mainly on increasing fisheries production and productivity from aquaculture and fisheries resources, both inland and marine.
The Blue Revolution Scheme was launched in FY2015-16 with a central outlay of Rs 3,000 crores for five years. However, as the sector needed reforms to address critical gaps across the value chain; the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was conceived in 2020 to help the fisheries sector achieve new heights while ensuring socio-economic welfare of fishers, fish farmers and other stakeholders.
The PMMSY is being implemented for a period of five years (2020-21 to 2024-25) with an investment of Rs 20,050 crore.
PMMSY initiatives
Under the PMMSY, there is a provision to provide financial assistance for setting up of Fish Farmers Producer Organisations (FFPOs) to economically empower the fishers and fish farmers and enhance their bargaining power which ultimately help to improve the standard of living of fishers.
The Department of Fisheries has so far accorded approval for setting up of a total of 2,195 FFPOs at a total project cost of Rs 544.85 crore comprising 2,000 fisheries cooperative as FFPOs and 195 new FFPOs. Further, to facilitate access to institutional credit by fishers and fish farmers, the Kisan Credit Card facility has been extended to fisheries since 2018-19 and till date 4,50,799 KCC card have been sanctioned to fishers and fish farmers.
The Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY), a Central sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in February 2024 for a period of four years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2026- 27. The PM-MKSSY will be implemented in all the states and Union Territories with an estimated outlay of Rs 6,000 crore.
The Department of Fisheries has been actively promoting the development of integrated aqua-parks to boost the fisheries sector. These aqua-parks are part of the PMMSY and aim to enhance the aquaculture value-chain through various initiatives.
Artificial reefs
Artificial reefs are man-made structures placed on the seafloor to enhance marine habitats and ecosystems. These structures mimic natural reefs and provide shelter, food sources, and breeding grounds for various marine organisms. The Department of Fisheries has been actively promoting the installation of artificial reefs across coastal states to support sustainable marine fisheries conservation efforts. These initiatives aim to rejuvenate coastal fisheries, rebuild fish stocks, and enhance marine biodiversity.
The department has also designated specific Nucleus Breeding Centres (NBCs) to enhance the genetic quality of aquaculture species. These NBCs play a crucial role in improving the productivity and quality of species like shrimp, which are vital for both domestic consumption and export.
A tremendous increase of 77.71 lakh tonnes was achieved in inland and aquaculture fish production from 2014- 24 as against the 26.78 lakh tonnes achieved from 2004-14
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education, established in 1961, is India’s leading institution for higher education and research in fisheries. The CIFE has trained more than 4,000 fisheries extension workers and professionals who play a crucial role in promoting sustainable fisheries practices across the country. Its role in capacity building has been critical to the growth of fisheries sector in the country.
To conclude, the period from 2004 to 2024 has been transformative for fisheries sector. Through concerted efforts in policy implementation, technological integration, and sustainable practices, India has not only enhanced its fish production but also ensured the socio-economic development of its fishing communities.
