How new Odisha Bill aims to boost sustainable marine fishing, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• The Odisha government approved the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Bill, 2026 to modernize the marine fisheries sector.
• The new legislation will repeal the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982, which was deemed inadequate.
• The Bill aims to ensure sustainable fisheries resource development, protect fishermen's livelihoods, and conserve marine ecosystems.
• Odisha has a coastline of over 500 km and is home to approximately 15 lakh fishermen, ranking eighth in India for fishing communities.
• The Bill targets increasing seafood exports to Rs 25,000 crore by 2036 from the current Rs 5,000 crore annually.

Detailed Insights:

• The 1982 Act lacked provisions for marine resource conservation, fishermen safety, technological advancements, and preventing unauthorized foreign fishing vessels.
• The new law will regulate deep-sea fishing and promote mariculture activities like marine cage culture and seaweed culture.
• The legislation facilitates comprehensive smart green integrated infrastructure development, including modernizing fishing harbors.
• Mandatory use of safety equipment, communication technologies, biometric/QR-coded Aadhaar identification, and enhanced insurance will be required for fishermen.
• The Bill regulates fishing vessels, gear, and prohibits destructive practices, aiming to curb illegal immigration via sea routes.
• The proposed law aligns with Odisha’s "Blue Economy" initiatives, including the deep sea fishing mission, for sustainable marine resource use.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Mariculture: The farming of marine organisms for food and other products in open ocean or enclosed bodies of water.
• Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ocean ecosystem health.