Nothing Fishy – on India’s fisheries sector

Source: The post is based on the article “Nothing Fishy” published in “The Times of India” on 3rd July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Industries and industrial Policies – Agriculture and allied activities

News: A recent study by the Central Marine Fisheries Institute has provided some promising data that can be beneficial for the fisheries sector India.

What is the study?

A recent study by the Central Marine Fisheries Institute found that 91% of the 70 species evaluated had healthy numbers.

What is the potential of fisheries sector in India?

India boasts over 1,500 marine species and 900 freshwater ones, along with ‘exotic’ and brackish water varieties, totaling over 2,800 species on record.

India is the world’s third-largest fish producer and fourth-largest exporter.

Fish is a solution to the country’s nutritional needs, being a rich, sustainable source of protein.

This study will provide a boost to the livelihood of 2. 8 crore people, depending upon fishing.

The report findings are important considering the changes to the marine ecosystem due to rise in sea-levels, increased intensity of cyclones even on the west coast, and warming of the Indian Ocean.

Fish production has a significantly lower climate impact than meat production. Some estimates suggest that it emits six times lower carbon per kilo than meat.

What should be done to promote the fisheries sector?

The Government of India plans to invest ₹30,572 crore (2015-2025) to improve the sector. However, significant work is needed in terms of infrastructure, regulation, oversight, insurance, and policies by both state governments and the Centre.

Issues like the use of purse seine fishing gear should be resolved amicably.