Along the coasts and in the sea, the dawn of a sunrise sector, Pg15

Key Highlights:

• India has emerged as the second-largest fish-producing country globally, contributing approximately 8% to world fish production.
• The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying was established in 2019 to provide dedicated focus to the fisheries sector.
• The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced an enabling framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas.
• Initiatives under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana are promoting deep-sea fishing and sustainable practices, particularly in regions like Lakshadweep.
• India's seafood exports reached over Rs 73,000 crore in the last financial year, marking a significant increase since 2013-2014.

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Detailed Insights:

• The growth of the Blue Economy is positioned as a successor to the Green Revolution and White Revolution in ensuring national food security and nutrition.
• India possesses a vast coastline of over 11,000 km and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending over nearly 24 lakh square km, rich in marine resources.
• The new framework prioritizes issuing letters of authorisation to fisheries co-operatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations, and Indian fishermen for deep-sea ventures.
• Lakshadweep alone accounts for approximately one-sixth of India's EEZ, highlighting its strategic importance for maritime resource utilization.
• Emphasis is placed on sustainable fishing practices and a firm stand against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing to preserve marine ecosystems.
• The sector aims to create extensive employment opportunities in harvesting, processing, cold chain, logistics, and export services, benefiting youth and women.
• Digital authorisation systems, vessel tracking, and international certification are being implemented to enhance the quality and global market acceptance of Indian seafood.
• The vision for the Blue Economy aligns with Viksit Bharat @ 2047, aiming for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and the health of ocean ecosystems.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): A sea zone over which a sovereign state has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources, extending 200 nautical miles from its coast.
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): A flagship scheme launched by the Government of India for the sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector.
• Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing: Fishing activities conducted in violation of national or international laws, or without proper reporting or regulation.