PM Modi chairs meeting of Fisheries sector to boost seafood exports

ANI May 15, 2025 286 views

PM Modi chaired a crucial meeting to advance India's fisheries sector, emphasizing deep-sea fishing and seafood exports. The government recently unveiled Rs 255 crore worth of projects under the PMMSY scheme for coastal states. India is the world's second-largest fish producer, contributing 8% of global output. New initiatives like the Turtle Excluder Device project aim to promote sustainable fishing practices.

"India's fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth and transformation over the past two decades" - Ministry of Fisheries
PM Modi chairs meeting of Fisheries sector to boost seafood exports
New Delhi, May 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday chaired a meeting to review the progress and future plans of the Fisheries sector.

Key Points

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PM Modi reviews fisheries sector progress

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Rs 255 crore projects announced for coastal states

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India ranks second in global fish production

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New initiatives focus on sustainable marine practices

The plans are to advance the Fisheries sector while focusing on deep-sea fishing and seafood exports.This comes days after the Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, unveiled Rs 255 Crores worth of fisheries projects on April 28 in Mumbai.

For this, the ministry organised "Coastal States Fisheries Meet: 2025", where Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated and laid the foundation for key projects for seven coastal states and UTs with a total outlay of Rs 255.30 crores under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), underscoring the commitment of the government for advancing the fisheries sector in the coastal states and UTs.

The fisheries sector in India plays a crucial role in supporting rural livelihoods and contributing to the country's national economy.

With a vast coastline and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million square kilometres, India boasts rich marine resources. The marine fisheries sector in India harbours significant potential, estimated at 5.31 million tonnes.

Coastal states and Union Territories, which include around 3,477 coastal fishing villages, produce 72 per cent of the country's total fish production and account for 76 per cent of India's total seafood exports.

The Ministry also launched a set of key initiatives aimed at strengthening marine fisheries and promoting sustainable practices, including the Marine Fisheries Census Operations, the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) project, and the release of the Standard Operating Procedure for the Vessel Communication and Support System.

India is the second largest fish producing country with around 8 per cent share in global fish production. Over the past two decades, India's fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth and transformation.

From technological advancements to policy reforms, the period from 2004 to 2024 has been marked by milestones that have bolstered India's position in global fisheries and aquaculture. The Union Budget 2025-26, proposed the highest ever total annual budgetary support of Rs. 2,703.67 crores for the fisheries sector.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
This is a much-needed push for our fisheries sector! 🎣 With India's vast coastline, we should be world leaders in seafood exports. Hope the funds reach the actual fishermen and not just stay on paper. The TED project for turtle conservation is especially commendable - development with environmental care!
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Priya M.
As someone from Kerala, I've seen how fishing communities struggle despite our state's rich marine resources. ₹255 crores sounds good, but implementation matters more. Hope they address issues like fuel prices and middlemen who eat into fishermen's profits. The Vessel Communication System could be a game-changer for safety at sea.
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Arjun S.
While the focus on exports is good, we must ensure domestic fish supply remains stable and affordable. Prices of common fish like rohu and katla have doubled in Kolkata markets. The government should balance export ambitions with local needs. Still, good to see PM taking personal interest in this sector.
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Sunita P.
Deep-sea fishing initiatives could create lakhs of jobs! But training is crucial - our fishermen need modern techniques and equipment. Also hope they consider women working in fish processing units who often get ignored in these schemes. The ₹2,703 crore budget proposal shows serious commitment at least.
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Vikram J.
We must be careful with deep-sea fishing - don't want to end up like China depleting ocean resources. Sustainable practices should be non-negotiable. The marine census is a good first step. Maybe we can learn from Japan's fishing industry while maintaining our traditional knowledge.
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Meena R.
Fisherfolk are the backbone of coastal economies. Glad to see their issues getting attention at the highest level! 👏 Hope the schemes reach small fishermen, not just big exporters. The communication system for boats could prevent many tragedies during monsoon season.

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Tags:
PM Modi Fisheries sector Seafood exports Deep-sea fishing Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana Coastal states