India’s Fisheries Sector Gets a Major Policy Push
Context
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has emphasized a significant boost to the fisheries sector with a record allocation of ₹2,761.80 crore in the Union Budget 2026–27. The funding seeks to build upon earlier initiatives such as PMMSY and the Blue Revolution, with a focus on technological advancement, digital governance, and inclusive development for over 3 crore fishers.
Sectoral Transformation: Key Features
Structural Shift:
The fisheries sector is transitioning from traditional, subsistence-based practices to a modern, organized, and technology-driven value chain.
Blue Economy Integration:
Efforts are directed towards sustainable utilization of aquatic resources, modernization of aquaculture, and inclusive participation of fishing communities.
Digital Enablement:
Digital platforms are being used to formalize fishers, enabling better access to credit, insurance, and welfare schemes.
Performance Indicators
Global Rank:
India is the second-largest fish producer globally, contributing nearly 8% of global output.
Production Trends:
Fish production has increased from 95.79 lakh tonnes (2013–14) to 197.75 lakh tonnes (2024–25).
Economic Significance:
The sector contributes about 7.43% to Agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA).
Export Growth:
Seafood exports reached ₹62,408 crore in FY 2024–25, with shrimp as the leading export.
Growth Drivers and Opportunities
Inland Resources:
India’s extensive inland water bodies (31.5 lakh hectares) provide large untapped aquaculture potential.
Marine Advantage:
The 11,099 km coastline and 24 lakh sq. km EEZ offer vast marine resource opportunities.
Food Security Role:
Fisheries provide affordable protein, aiding in addressing malnutrition.
Livelihood Support:
Nearly 3 crore people depend on fisheries for employment and income.
Export Potential:
Increasing global demand offers scope for India to emerge as a leader in value-added seafood exports.
Policy Measures and Interventions
PM Matsya Sampada Scheme:
A flagship initiative with ₹20,050 crore investment to improve production, infrastructure, and value addition.
Institutional Credit Expansion:
Kisan Credit Card coverage extended to fishers, benefiting over 4.39 lakh individuals.
Digital Fisheries Ecosystem:
Introduction of a national digital platform to enable fisher registration and targeted delivery of benefits.
Infrastructure Financing:
Dedicated funding for development of fishing harbours, cold chains, and landing centres.
Key Constraints
Post-Harvest Inefficiencies:
Inadequate cold storage and processing facilities lead to significant losses.
Climate Risks:
Rising sea temperatures and extreme weather events impact marine ecosystems and livelihoods.
Low Yield Levels:
Productivity in inland aquaculture remains below global standards.
Resource Depletion:
Overfishing and unsustainable practices threaten long-term sustainability.
Credit Gaps:
Many fishers still rely on informal sources of credit due to limited financial access.
Strategic Roadmap
Technological Upgradation:
Promotion of advanced aquaculture techniques such as Biofloc and RAS systems.
Infrastructure Development:
Modernization of fish landing centres and harbours to meet global standards.
Deep-Sea Exploration:
Encouraging deep-sea fishing to reduce pressure on coastal waters.
Collectivization:
Strengthening Fisheries Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) for better market linkage.
Sustainability Framework:
Implementation of stricter regulations to ensure long-term conservation of resources.
Conclusion
India’s fisheries sector is steadily evolving into a technology-driven and sustainable component of the Blue Economy. With strong policy backing and inclusive growth strategies, it holds the potential to enhance livelihoods while ensuring ecological balance.
Source : PIB