The Vice President of India recently unveiled the fifth iteration of Aqua Aquaria India, 2019. The event took place in Hyderabad, Telangana, and is marked as the largest aquaculture exhibition in India. The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) organizes this biennial event with the theme “To take Blue Revolution to India’s hinterland” for the 2019 version.
Fisheries Sector in India: A Potential Driving Force for Blue Economy
India holds the second place globally in terms of fish production. Furthermore, in 2017-18, fish accounted for approximately 10% of total Indian exports and nearly 20% of agriculture exports. Being the 4th largest exporter of fish worldwide, the country’s fisheries contribute about 1% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and about 5.37% to the agricultural GDP. This data indicates that India possesses considerable potential to establish itself as a leading Blue Economy.
The Fisheries sector presents several notified existing potentials, including Shrimp Culture, Cage Culture, and Pen Culture.
Developments in the Fisheries Sector
Shrimp Culture: The government has recently permitted the regulated introduction of Pacific White Shrimp, aiming to use the potential of this species to cater to the global markets.
Cage Culture: This methodology involves cultivating fish in existing water resources, enclosed in a net cage, to ensure the free flow of water.
Pen Culture: Pen Culture is a system of breeding fish within a fixed net enclosure either at the bank or in a water body.
| Development | Description |
|---|---|
| Shrimp Culture | The regulated introduction of Pacific White Shrimp to serve the global markets. |
| Cage Culture | Fish cultivation in existing water resources, enclosed in a net cage ensuring free water flow. |
| Pen Culture | A system of breeding fish within a fixed net enclosure either at the bank or in a water body. |
About Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)
Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), established under the MPEDA Act, 1972, operates as the nodal coordinating state-owned agency for fishery production and related activities. It falls under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. With its headquarters situated in Kochi, Kerala, MPEDA aims to increase seafood exports, including fisheries of all sorts, set standards, manage marketing, processing, extension, and provide training in various aspects.
