India’s marine fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years. Marine fish production increased from 3.476 million tonnes in 2020–21 to 4.495 million tonnes in 2023–24, registering an impressive average annual growth rate of 8.9%. According to the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), a 2022 stock assessment revealed that 91.1% of 135 fish species in Indian waters are being harvested sustainably.
Fisheries research institutions under ICAR are conducting scientific studies on the impact of climate change and developing climate-resilient strategies. Under the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, assessments are being carried out on the impact of climate change on wetland fisheries in Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Kerala. Research also focuses on climate trends in major river basins, and their effects on fish distribution, catch composition, and overall production.
Key areas of marine research include climate change modeling, production potential assessment, risk and vulnerability analysis, carbon footprint and blue carbon capacity, ocean acidification, and adaptation strategies. Awareness and training programs for fisherfolk are being conducted in states such as Odisha, Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala.
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), implemented in collaboration with states and Union Territories, is playing a vital role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. The scheme promotes sustainable fishing, eco-friendly aquaculture, climate-resilient infrastructure, and marine ecosystem conservation. Initiatives such as the construction of artificial reefs and riverine/seawater ranching programs are helping replenish fish resources.
Additionally, 100 coastal villages across the country are being developed as Climate-Resilient Coastal Fisher Villages (CRCFV), with each village supported by ₹2 crore from the central government. The selection of these villages is based on local needs and gap analysis studies.
PMMSY also focuses on clean fish production, species diversification, promotion of export-oriented species, branding, standardization, and certification. Development of modern fishing harbors, fish landing centers, cold chain facilities, and post-harvest infrastructure are key priorities.
So far, 58 fishing harbors and landing centers have been approved with an investment of ₹3,281.31 crore. Additionally, approvals worth ₹1,568.11 crore have been granted for 734 ice plants/cold storages, 192 retail fish markets, 21 modern wholesale markets, and 6,410 fish kiosks.
To improve fish transportation, 27,297 units have been sanctioned, including refrigerated and insulated trucks, live fish vending centers, auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, and bicycles equipped with ice boxes. Moreover, “Sagar Mitras” have been appointed in coastal villages to raise awareness on hygienic practices, sustainable fishing techniques, and personal health among fisherfolk.
Enhancing Fisherfolk Incomes:
The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), through its NETFISH network, is conducting extensive awareness and training programs in partnership with states to promote fish quality management and sustainable practices. Since 2007, over 45,500 programs have been organized, benefiting around 1.5 million stakeholders. These efforts have reduced post-harvest losses, improved seafood quality, enhanced fisherfolk incomes, and strengthened the competitiveness of Indian seafood exports in global markets.
