The fisheries sector is a vital “sunrise sector” in the Indian economy, often referred to as the “Blue Revolution.” It provides livelihood, employment, and nutritional security to over 28 million people, particularly within marginalized coastal communities. India has transitioned from traditional backyard activity to a commercial industry, consistently maintaining a growth rate of about 10% in recent years.
Statistical Profile and Global Standing
India is a global heavyweight in fish production, characterized by its vast marine and inland resources.
| Parameter | Value / Rank |
| Global Rank (Total Production) | 3rd Largest Producer |
| Global Rank (Aquaculture) | 2nd Largest Producer |
| Contribution to National GVA | ~1.1% |
| Contribution to Agriculture GVA | ~6.7% |
| Share in Global Production | ~8% |
| Export Performance | Largest exporter of frozen shrimp |
Classification of Fishery Resources
The sector is broadly divided into two segments: Marine and Inland. In a significant shift over the last two decades, Inland fisheries (Aquaculture) have overtaken Marine fisheries in terms of total production volume.
Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture
- Dominance: Accounts for approximately 75% of India’s total fish production.
- Resources: Includes rivers, canals, floodplains, wetlands (beels), reservoirs, tanks, and ponds.
- Major Species: Indian Major Carps (Rohu, Catla, Mrigal), Exotic Carps, and Freshwater Prawns.
- States: Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal are the leading states in inland fish production.
Marine Fisheries
- Resources: India possesses an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million sq. km and a coastline of 7,517 km.
- Structure: Primarily artisanal and small-scale, though deep-sea fishing is being incentivized.
- Major Species: Sardines, Mackerel, Ribbon fish, Pelagic and Demersal varieties.
- States: Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala are top contributors to marine landings.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Launched in May 2020 as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat package, PMMSY is the flagship scheme for the integrated development of the sector.
- Investment: Over ₹20,050 crores, the highest ever for the fisheries sector.
- Targets (by 2024-25):
- Enhance fish production to 22 million metric tonnes.
- Increase export earnings to ₹1 lakh crore.
- Double the incomes of fishers and fish farmers.
- Reduce post-harvest losses from 20-25% to 10%.
- Focus Areas: Genetic improvement, seaweed cultivation, ornamental fisheries, and “Sagar Mitra” (extension support).
Blue Revolution and Infrastructure Initiatives
The government has shifted focus from mere production to infrastructure and technology-led growth.
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): A dedicated fund to provide concessional finance to State Governments and private entrepreneurs for creating cold storage, ice plants, and modern fishing harbors.
- Kisan Credit Card (KCC) for Fishers: Extended in 2018-19 to help fishers meet their working capital requirements, providing interest subvention for loans up to ₹2 lakh.
- Sagar Parikrama: An outreach program navigating the coastal belt to understand the challenges of fishermen and disseminate information about government schemes.
Emerging Sub-sectors: Seaweed and Ornamental Fisheries
- Seaweed Farming: Promoted as a carbon-sequestering, climate-smart livelihood. India has identified potential sites along the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. It is used in pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and food processing (Agar, Alginates).
- Ornamental Fisheries: Often called “living jewels,” this sector has high export potential. The National Freshwater Ornamental Fish Hatchery at Itarsi is a key facility.
Significant Challenges
- Sustainability and Overfishing: Bottom trawling in marine waters leads to the destruction of benthic habitats and juvenile fish catch.
- Climate Change: Rising sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification are shifting fish migration patterns and bleaching coral reefs.
- Post-Harvest Losses: Lack of integrated cold chains and processing facilities results in significant economic loss.
- International Issues: Conflicts over maritime boundaries (e.g., Palk Strait issues with Sri Lanka) and stringent sanitary and phyto-sanitary (SPS) norms by the EU and USA.
Key Facts and Trivia for UPSC Prelims
- Department of Fisheries: A separate department was created under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying in 2019 to give the sector focused attention.
- National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB): Headquartered in Hyderabad, it acts as the nodal agency for implementing various schemes.
- Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI): Located in Kochi; it is the premier body for marine research.
- World Fisheries Day: Celebrated annually on November 21st.
- Species Spotlight: The Black Spotted Croaker (Ghol Fish) was recently declared the state fish of Gujarat due to its immense commercial and medicinal value.
- Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): Under UNCLOS, India has rights over marine resources up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline.