The 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) was inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh in New Delhi. This event marks advancement in the global fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The forum brings together stakeholders from various fields to discuss innovations and sustainability in fisheries. India’s commitment to these areas has been strengthened under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Government Initiatives in Fisheries
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest fish producer. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a key initiative aimed at enhancing fish production and promoting sustainable practices. The government is also implementing digital solutions like the National Digital Fisheries Platform to ensure the safety of fishermen.
Technological Advancements
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed 75 new fisheries technologies. These advancements aim to promote sustainable and carbon-neutral practices within the fisheries sector. The use of vessel monitoring systems and emergency alerts enhances the safety of fishers at sea.
Financial Support for Fishers
The Kisan Credit Card scheme has been extended to fishers and fish farmers. This initiative provides financial assistance to improve their livelihoods. Various insurance schemes have also been introduced to protect the fisheries sector against unforeseen challenges.
Capacity Building and Research
The forum brought into light the need for capacity building initiatives. Research institutes are encouraged to collaborate with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to promote scientific practices among fishers. This collaboration aims to improve productivity and sustainability in fisheries.
International Collaboration
The forum serves as a platform for international collaboration in advancing the fisheries sector. Experts from 24 countries participated, discussing innovations and sharing best practices. The importance of global partnerships in driving sustainable aquaculture was emphasised.
Future of Fisheries and Aquaculture
The 14AFAF is expected to shape the future of fisheries and aquaculture. With over 1,000 participants and 20 lead presentations, the event showcases the latest trends and technologies in the industry. It reinforces India’s growing role in the global fisheries landscape.
Showcasing India’s Contributions
Hosting the forum after 15 years puts stress on India’s increasing significance in global fisheries. The event marks the country’s contributions and its commitment to sustainable practices. It provides an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and drive future initiatives in aquaculture.
Global Perspectives on Fisheries
International speakers praised India’s transformation initiatives in sustainable aquaculture. The forum is seen as a ‘Mahakumbh’ for fisheries researchers, showcasing the potential for innovation and collaboration in the sector.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana in enhancing fish production in India.
- Explain the significance of digital solutions in ensuring the safety of fishermen at sea.
- What are the key challenges facing sustainable aquaculture in India? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Comment on the impact of international collaboration on the advancement of fisheries research and technology.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana in enhancing fish production in India.
- PMMSY aims to increase fish production and productivity through sustainable practices.
- It promotes infrastructure development such as fish landing centers and storage facilities.
- The scheme provides financial assistance and credit support to fishers and fish farmers.
- It encourages the adoption of modern technologies and practices in aquaculture.
- PMMSY also focuses on enhancing the livelihoods of fishers and boosting the blue economy.
2. Explain the significance of digital solutions in ensuring the safety of fishermen at sea.
- Digital solutions like vessel monitoring systems track fishermen’s locations in real-time.
- Emergency alerts enhance communication between fishers and rescue services.
- The National Digital Fisheries Platform centralizes data for better resource management.
- These technologies help in reducing accidents and improving overall safety standards.
- Digital tools also facilitate better decision-making based on weather and sea conditions.
3. What are the key challenges facing sustainable aquaculture in India? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Overfishing and habitat degradation threaten fish populations and ecosystems.
- Limited access to technology and training hampers productivity among fishers.
- Climate change impacts water quality and fish health, affecting aquaculture yields.
- Financial constraints limit investment in sustainable practices and innovations.
- Policy inconsistencies and lack of coordination among stakeholders create hurdles in implementation.
4. Comment on the impact of international collaboration on the advancement of fisheries research and technology.
- International collaboration encourages knowledge sharing and best practices among countries.
- Joint research initiatives lead to the development of innovative solutions and technologies.
- Collaborative efforts enhance funding opportunities for fisheries projects and research.
- Global partnerships can address transboundary challenges such as overfishing and pollution.
- They also promote capacity building and training for local fishers and researchers.
