Union Minister L Murugan Assures Support for Transition to Deep-Sea Fishing

At the Global Fisheries Conference India 2023, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, L Murugan, reaffirmed the central government's unwavering commitment to supporting traditional fishermen in their shift towards deep-sea fishing. This assistance will be provided through various schemes, including the Blue Revolution and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

Financial Assistance and Loan Facilities

Murugan emphasized the government's initiative to offer financial aid of up to 60% to traditional fishermen who wish to convert their vessels into deep-sea fishing boats. Additionally, loan facilities are available to facilitate this transformation, ensuring that fishermen have the necessary resources to make this transition.

Importance of Modern Fishing Vessels

The minister highlighted the need for modern fishing vessels equipped with built-in processing facilities to maintain international quality standards for deep-sea resources like tuna. Recognizing that traditional fishermen currently lack these capabilities, Murugan expressed the government's commitment to bridging this gap and enabling them to compete in the global market.

Potential of Tuna Fishing

Murugan acknowledged the high demand for tuna worldwide and India's potential to increase its tuna fishing capacity. However, he noted that technological advancements are crucial to unlocking this potential and called for more start-ups to enter the deep-sea fishing sector. Research efforts should focus on reducing fuel costs and exploring the use of green fuels in fishing boats, he added.

Sustainable Deep-Sea Fishing

The minister emphasized the need for research and design in upgrading fishing vessels to effectively harness the potential of deep-sea fishing in a sustainable manner. Deep-sea fishing, which involves catching fish in the deep parts of the sea beyond the limit of territorial waters, requires careful management to ensure the long-term health of marine resources.

High Value of Deep-Sea Resources

Highlighting the economic significance of deep-sea resources, Deputy Commissioner of Fisheries, Government of India, Sanjay Pandey, pointed out that the Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna has an end value of over USD 4 billion. Despite this potential, the current catch of yellowfin and skipjack tunas in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is only 12% of the estimated harvest of 179,000 tonnes.

Need for Investment and Collaboration

World Bank Consultant Dr. Arthur Neiland stressed the importance of investment from public and private sectors to unlock the economic, social, and environmental benefits of deep-sea fishing. He also emphasized the need to leverage India's strong institutional base, expertise in fisheries science and management, fish processing, and infrastructure to support the development of deep-sea fishing.

By providing steadfast support, financial assistance, and technological advancements, the government aims to empower traditional fishermen and transform India into a leading player in the deep-sea fishing industry. Through sustainable practices and collaboration between stakeholders, India can harness the potential of its deep-sea resources, contributing to economic growth and the prosperity of coastal communities.