The export of tuna fish from India has surged by 31.83% in the fiscal year 2023-24. This growth marks India’s potential in the global tuna market, valued at $41.94 billion. The Union Fisheries Department is now focusing on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a strategic hub for tuna exports. The region’s Exclusive Economic Zone is rich in various tuna species, presenting an important opportunity for enhancement in the fisheries sector.
Tuna Species and Potential Yield
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast a range of tuna species. Estimates suggest an annual potential yield of 64,500 tonnes. This includes 24,000 tonnes of yellowfin tuna, 22,000 tonnes of skipjack tuna, 500 tonnes of bigeye tuna, and 18,000 tonnes of neritic tuna. The islands primarily harvest neritic tuna, which is caught near the shore.
Current Export Statistics
In 2023-24, India exported 51,626 tonnes of tuna, generating $87.96 million in revenue. The Marine Products Export Development Authority reported that the demand for tuna species remains high, yet the region’s fishery is still underutilised. This underdevelopment is attributed to various challenges.
Challenges in Tuna Fishing
Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, limited access to modern fishing technology, and insufficient fish processing and storage facilities. These factors hinder the optimisation of tuna catch rates and the overall development of the industry.
Importance of Sustainable Practices
A sustainable fisheries management framework is crucial for the long-term viability of tuna stocks. Without it, future production could be compromised. There is a pressing need for skill development in modern fishing practices and post-catch handling to improve the value chain and ensure higher quality exports.
Economic and Community Impact
The expansion of the tuna fishery sector is expected to create numerous employment opportunities. Local communities, especially fishermen and workers in processing units, stand to benefit . Tuna also serves as a vital protein source for island populations with limited food options.
Networking and Investment Opportunities
The recent investors’ meeting in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands aimed to encourage networking among stakeholders in fisheries and aquaculture. This initiative is expected to attract investments and enhance collaboration across regions.
Future Prospects
With the right investments and technological advancements, the Indian tuna fishery sector can thrive. This growth can potentially boost both regional and national economies through increased exports and value-added products.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of modern fishing technologies on the sustainability of tuna fisheries in India.
- What are the main challenges faced by the tuna fishing industry in India? Suggest measures to overcome them.
- Estimate the potential economic benefits of expanding the tuna export sector for local communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Point out the significance of sustainable fisheries management in preserving tuna stocks. Provide suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of modern fishing technologies on the sustainability of tuna fisheries in India.
- Modern fishing technologies can increase catch efficiency, enabling better management of tuna stocks.
- These technologies may reduce bycatch, allowing non-target species to thrive, which is crucial for ecosystem balance.
- However, over-reliance on technology without sustainable practices can lead to overfishing and depletion of tuna stocks.
- Implementing technology requires training and skill development among local fishermen for effective use.
- Investment in sustainable technologies can enhance the quality of exports, contributing to economic growth.
2. What are the main challenges faced by the tuna fishing industry in India? Suggest measures to overcome them.
- Inadequate infrastructure hampers efficient fishing and processing; investment in facilities is essential.
- Limited access to modern fishing technology restricts catch optimization; training programs can bridge this gap.
- Insufficient fish processing and storage facilities lead to post-catch losses; developing cold chain logistics is vital.
- Regulatory and policy frameworks need to be established to promote sustainable fishing practices.
- Collaboration with local communities and stakeholders can enhance resource management and investment opportunities.
3. Estimate the potential economic benefits of expanding the tuna export sector for local communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Expansion can create direct employment opportunities in fishing and processing sectors, boosting local incomes.
- Increased tuna exports can enhance local economies through higher revenue generation from global markets.
- Development of related industries (e.g., logistics, tourism) can provide additional job opportunities.
- Improved access to quality protein sources can enhance food security and nutrition for island communities.
- Investment in fisheries can stimulate infrastructure development, benefitting the broader community beyond fishing.
4. Point out the significance of sustainable fisheries management in preserving tuna stocks. Provide suitable examples.
- Sustainable fisheries management ensures that tuna stocks are harvested at a rate that allows for population recovery and growth.
- Implementing quotas and size limits helps prevent overfishing and maintains ecosystem health.
- Examples include the use of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) that allow tuna populations to thrive away from fishing pressures.
- Regional cooperation among countries in the Indian Ocean is crucial for managing shared tuna stocks effectively.
- Adopting eco-labeling practices can promote sustainable fishing and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
