Strategic Discussions Held to Transform Island Fisheries into Economic Powerhouses

New Delhi, March 2 – The Government of India recently hosted a high-level post-budget webinar focusing on agriculture and rural prosperity, with an emphasis on harnessing the immense fisheries potential of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Fisheries, aims to revolutionize these coastal regions into world-class fisheries hubs, thereby fostering economic growth, employment opportunities, and sustainable fisheries management.

Building a Robust Infrastructure and Empowering Local Communities

A key component of the proposed framework is the development of robust infrastructure to support large-scale fisheries activities while ensuring the active participation of local communities. During the discussions, officials underscored the necessity of specialized training programs to equip local fishermen with modern techniques, optimize marine resource utilization, and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Government's Commitment to Advancing Fisheries in EEZ and High Seas

Union Minister of Fisheries, Rajeev Ranjan Singh, along with junior ministers SP Singh Baghel and George Kurian, highlighted the government’s strong commitment to marine resource expansion within India’s 2.2 million sq km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Through research-driven advancements spearheaded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), India aims to scale up its fisheries sector while maintaining a sustainable ecological balance.

Doubling Fishermen's Income and Establishing Fisheries Cluster Zones

The government’s initiative is not just about increasing production but also about ensuring that fishermen and coastal communities reap economic benefits. Junior Minister George Kurian emphasized plans to double fish farmers’ incomes by introducing fisheries cluster zones in Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep. These zones will integrate advanced fishery techniques, technology-driven cold storage facilities, and efficient distribution networks to maximize profitability for fish farmers.

Innovative Fisheries Management Strategies for Global Competitiveness

The breakout session on ‘Sustainable Fisheries in EEZ and High Seas’, chaired by Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi, outlined strategic measures for sustainable fisheries development, seafood export expansion, and employment generation. The session covered various key topics, including deep-sea fishing innovations, modern vessel design, enhanced credit facilities for fisheries cooperatives, and offshore technological advancements to ensure marine resource efficiency.

Sustainable Development: The Core of India’s Fisheries Expansion

One of the central pillars of this ambitious framework is the integration of environmental responsibility with economic expansion. The discussions focused on balancing fisheries development with marine ecosystem conservation, ensuring that fisheries expansion does not compromise ecological integrity. This involves enhancing regulatory mechanisms, reducing overfishing risks, and implementing best practices for marine conservation.

A Blueprint for India’s Global Leadership in Fisheries

The webinar served as a critical platform for laying the groundwork for a structured and scalable fisheries sector. By strengthening infrastructure, streamlining regulations, and expanding market access, the government aims to position India as a global leader in sustainable and responsible fisheries. Special focus on Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep is expected to boost seafood exports, generate employment, and create a self-sustaining fisheries industry that contributes significantly to India’s economic growth.

This initiative represents a transformative leap forward in India’s fisheries sector, ensuring long-term prosperity for coastal communities while solidifying India’s position on the global fisheries map.