Context: 

Recently, the Union Department of Fisheries and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) organised a technical dialogue on Eco-Fishing Ports: Sustainable and Inclusive Harbours in New Delhi.

Key highlights of the Dialogue

• Emphasised India’s significant marine resources and achievements in fisheries production, exports, and livelihood support.  
• Identified challenges such as Inadequate infrastructure and Limited market linkages

• Announced approval of projects worth ₹9,832.95 crore (USD 1.15 billion) for:

• Construction/modernisation/dredging of 117 Fishing Harbours (FHs) and Fish Landing Centres (FLCs)
• Development of 3 smart and integrated harbours at:
• Vanakbara (Daman & Diu)
• Karaikal (Puducherry)
• Jakhau (Gujarat)

India’s Fisheries Sector

• Aquatic Wealth: India is endowed with diverse aquatic resources and a long coastline of 11,099 km.

Global Rank:

• The 2nd largest fish producer globally.
• Contributes ~8% of the world’s total fish production

• Aquaculture Leadership: A global leader in aquaculture and shrimp exports.

• Seafood Exports:

• Export destinations: Over 132 countries
• Key markets: China, USA, EU, Japan

Export value:

• FY 2013–14: ₹30,213 crore
• FY 2023–24: ₹60,523.89 crore (doubled in 10 years)

Future Goal: To diversify the export basket with value-added products and new seafood species for emerging markets