Context:
Recently, the Union Department of Fisheries and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) organised a technical dialogue on Eco-Fishing Ports: Sustainable and Inclusive Harbours in New Delhi.
Key highlights of the Dialogue
- Emphasised India’s significant marine resources and achievements in fisheries production, exports, and livelihood support.
- Identified challenges such as Inadequate infrastructure and Limited market linkages
• Announced approval of projects worth ₹9,832.95 crore (USD 1.15 billion) for:
- Construction/modernisation/dredging of 117 Fishing Harbours (FHs) and Fish Landing Centres (FLCs)
- Development of 3 smart and integrated harbours at:
- Vanakbara (Daman & Diu)
- Karaikal (Puducherry)
- Jakhau (Gujarat)
India’s Fisheries Sector
- Aquatic Wealth: India is endowed with diverse aquatic resources and a long coastline of 11,099 km.
Global Rank:
- The 2nd largest fish producer globally.
- Contributes ~8% of the world’s total fish production
• Aquaculture Leadership: A global leader in aquaculture and shrimp exports.
• Seafood Exports:
- Export destinations: Over 132 countries
- Key markets: China, USA, EU, Japan
Export value:
- FY 2013–14: ₹30,213 crore
- FY 2023–24: ₹60,523.89 crore (doubled in 10 years)
Future Goal: To diversify the export basket with value-added products and new seafood species for emerging markets