Overview
India celebrated World Fisheries Day 2025, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in supporting food security, livelihoods, and ecological balance. The event highlighted India's progress in the fisheries sector and its commitment to the blue economy.
Key Developments
India's Fisheries Sector Growth
- Fish Production: India's fish production has more than doubled from 96 lakh tonnes in 2013–14 to 195 lakh tonnes in 2024–25.
- Global Ranking: India is the second-largest fish-producing country and a leading shrimp producer.
- Export Increase: Marine product exports increased by 11.08% from US$ 0.81 Billion in October 2024 to US$ 0.90 Billion in October 2025.
Government Initiatives and Reforms
- GST Reduction: GST on key fish products reduced from 12% to 5%, enhancing affordability and export competitiveness.
- PMMSY Infrastructure: Infrastructure creation under PMMSY includes 730 cold storages and ice plants, 26,348 fish transport facilities, and 6,410 fish kiosks.
- Policy Focus: Focus on transparency and governance through schemes like PMSSY, EEZ Sustainable Harnessing Rules, and the ReALCRaft platform.
World Fisheries Day 2025 Theme
The theme for World Fisheries Day 2025 is “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Value Addition in Seafood Exports.” The event included participation from 27 nations, reflecting India’s growing leadership in the Blue Economy.
India's Progress in the Fisheries Sector
India accounts for nearly 8% of the world’s fish output. The sector supports millions of livelihoods, particularly in coastal and rural communities. Seafood exports amounted to Rs.62,408 crore in 2024-25.
Key Government Initiatives
- 5th National Marine Fisheries Census 2025
- Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) rules
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY)
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Launched on September 10, 2020, with a total investment of Rs.20,312 crore for the period 2020–21 to 2025–26, the scheme aims to promote a Blue Economy.
Exam Relevance
This information is relevant for GS Paper 3 (Economy, Agriculture) and GS Paper 2 (Government Policies). It highlights India's efforts in developing the fisheries sector, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the blue economy.