Government of India takes Significant Step to Strengthen Small Scale Fisheries, Fisheries Cooperatives & FFPOs

Key Points

1. Government of India notified Rules for “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)” on **04.11.2025**.
2. The initiative fulfills the Budget **2025–26** announcement for sustainable fisheries from the Indian EEZ and High Seas.
3. The Rules prioritize Fishermen Cooperative Societies and Fish Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs) for deep-sea fishing operations.
4. Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep account for **49%** of India’s EEZ area.
5. The EEZ Rules aim to curb harmful fishing practices such as LED light fishing, pair trawling, and bull trawling.
6. An Access Pass is required for mechanized and large-sized motorized vessels, obtainable through the online ReALCRaft portal.
7. Foreign fishing vessels are not allowed access to India’s EEZ.
8. ReALCRaft is being integrated with MPEDA and EIC for issuance of Fish Catch and Health Certificates.