Hon’ble Vice-President of India attends Fisheries Outreach Programme in Agatti, Lakshadweep to Strengthen India’s Blue Economy

Key Highlights:

• A Fisheries Outreach Programme was organized by the Department of Fisheries in Agatti, Lakshadweep on August 31, 2026, to strengthen India’s Blue Economy.
• The Hon’ble Vice President released “Mission Rangeen Machhli 2031” Strategic Action Plan for Ornamental Fisheries Development.
• Lakshadweep was highlighted for its immense fisheries potential, including a 4 lakh sq. km Exclusive Economic Zone and an estimated 1 lakh tonnes of fisheries potential, with 94,000 tonnes of tuna.
• Fisheries development projects worth over ₹62 crore were approved for Lakshadweep under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• India’s fish production increased from 95.7 lakh tonnes in 2013-14 to 197.75 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, with seafood exports reaching ₹73,890 Crore in 2025-26.
• Lakshadweep has been notified as a Seaweed Cluster, and a Seaweed Bank has been approved in collaboration with ICAR-CMFRI.

Detailed Insights:

• The programme focused on strengthening Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and fisheries cooperatives while sustainably harnessing high-value species like tuna, seaweed, and ornamental fisheries.
• The Vice President emphasized scientific harvesting, digital authorization, vessel monitoring, international certification, and sustainable fishing practices.
• Benefits distributed under PMMSY included support for Deep-Sea Fishing Vessels, recreational fisheries, safety kits, Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), and communication devices.
• The Union Minister highlighted transformational initiatives like the Blue Revolution, FIDF, PMMSY, and PMMKSSY for accelerating fisheries sector growth.
• Lakshadweep accounts for nearly 17% of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone, underscoring its strategic importance.
• Efforts are underway to secure international sustainability certification and develop a global “Lakshadweep Sustainable Tuna” brand.
• 575 seaweed cultivation units are being promoted to generate livelihood opportunities for women, youth, and self-help groups.
• An ornamental fish hatchery has been established at Agatti, with three rearing units approved under PMMSY.
• 19 recreational fishing units have been sanctioned under PMMSY to promote fisheries-based tourism.
• The current annual harvest in Lakshadweep (15,000 metric tonnes) is significantly below its potential of nearly 1 lakh metric tonnes.
• 16 Deep Sea Fishing Vessels, with full financial assistance, have been sanctioned for fishers in Lakshadweep.
• New policy frameworks include the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone Rules, 2025, and Guidelines for Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the High Seas, 2025.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ocean ecosystem health.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): A sea zone over which a state has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources.
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): A flagship scheme for the sustainable and responsible development of India's fisheries sector.
• Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs): Collectives of fish farmers aimed at enhancing their collective bargaining power, access to resources, and market linkages.