NITI Aayog Report on Seaweed Value Chain Development

NITI Aayog's Initiative for Seaweed Development

The NITI Aayog has published a comprehensive report titled “Strategy for the development of Seaweed Value Chain”. This report lays down a detailed roadmap to promote seaweed cultivation across India.

Understanding Seaweeds: Definition and Ecology

Seaweeds are primitive, marine non-flowering algae that lack true roots, stems, and leaves. They play a fundamental role in marine ecosystems, contributing significantly to biodiversity and marine health.

Common species found include Gelidiella acerosa, Gracilaria edulis, Gracilaria crassa, Gracilaria verrucosa, Sargassum spp., and Turbinaria spp. Seaweeds are broadly classified into three main groups based on their pigmentation:

• Green Algae (Chlorophyta)
• Brown Algae (Phaeophyta)
• Red Algae (Rhodophyta)

Global Seaweed Production Scenario

The global seaweed industry is a significant marine economic activity. In 2019, the total global seaweed production (combining cultivation and wild collection) reached approximately 35.8 million tonnes.

The seaweed industry is projected to experience continued growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.3% from 2022 to 2030.

Indian Seaweed Production and Economic Contribution

India possesses substantial potential for seaweed cultivation, though its current contribution to global production is modest. Annually, India harvests approximately 33,345 tonnes (wet weight) of seaweeds.

The Indian government aims to significantly increase the contribution of the allied sector to agriculture. The target is to raise the allied sector’s share of Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture to 9% by 2024-25, up from 7.26% in 2018-19.

Global Seaweed Trade Dynamics

The global seaweed market is a thriving sector, valued at USD 9.9 billion in 2021. International trade in seaweed and its derivatives is dominated by a few key players.

Hydrocolloids are thickening and gelling agents derived from various types of seaweed, widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Major Seaweed Beds in India

India's extensive coastline and island territories host abundant seaweed resources. These natural beds are crucial for both wild collection and potential cultivation expansion.

Government Initiatives for Seaweed Development

Recognizing the potential of the seaweed sector, the Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote its cultivation, processing, and commercialization.

• Seaweed Mission (Launched 2021):

  This mission aims to commercialize seaweed farming and processing, focusing on value addition. It also seeks to expand cultivation along India’s extensive 7,500-kilometre coastline.

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):

  The government is leveraging the existing PMMSY scheme to promote seaweed cultivation across the country, integrating it into broader fisheries development goals.

• Commercialisation of Seaweed Products by ICAR-CMFRI:

  The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has successfully commercialized two significant seaweed-based nutraceutical products:

  • Cadalmin^TM Immunalgin extract (Cadalmin^TM IMe)
  • Cadalmin^TM Antihypercholesterolemic extract (Cadalmin^TM Ace)