India's fish production has increased by 83% since 2013-14, providing livelihood opportunities for three crore fishers and farmers. To improve last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services, the government should integrate services into existing networks, expand digital platforms, promote public-private partnerships, and develop climate resilience strategies, addressing challenges like the digital divide and climate change.
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India, the second-largest fish and aquaculture producer globally, has seen an 83% increase in national fish production since 2013-14.
India's fisheries resources are diverse, providing livelihood opportunities for approximately three crore fishers and farmers. Since 2013-14, the country's fish production has increased by 83%, reaching a record high of 175 lakh tonnes in 2022-23.
India is the world's second-largest producer of fish and aquaculture, with inland fisheries accounting for 75%.
Improving last-mile fisheries and aquaculture extension services is essential. Experts argue that such extension should provide fishers/fish farmers with request-based services on the life cycle of improved species cultured, water quality, disease, and available rearing technologies.
Fisheries extension services play an important role in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and fish farmers' daily operations.
These services promote the transmission of critical knowledge on fish species management, water quality, disease control, and rearing technologies.
They train fishers in sustainable practices and promote fisheries as a viable business model.
This is becoming increasingly important, especially in considering issues such as climate change and overfishing.
It was launched as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to provide a one-stop solution for fish farmers.
These centres provide a range of services, including water and soil analysis, disease testing, and training in improved seed and feed technologies. For example, the MSK in Thrissur, Kerala, offers advanced testing services, whereas those in Nasik and Sangli, Maharashtra, train fishermen using technological inputs.
It also promotes collaboration through startup companies, self-help groups, and Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs).
Sagar Mitras serve as vital links between the government and sea-based fishermen, particularly in coastal states and Union Territories.
They collect information on marine catches, track price fluctuations, and provide critical information such as weather forecasts, local fishing zones, and disaster alerts.
They also educate fishermen on hygiene, local regulations, and proper fish-handling techniques to promote safer and more efficient practices.
There are two main approaches to improving fisheries extension services. First, there is a need for better institutional convergence by connecting services to Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and state agricultural departments. This will result in improved coordination and reach. Second, increasing digital outreach is critical.
Platforms such as AquaBazaar, a virtual learning tool developed by the National Fisheries Development Board, can aid in the spread of knowledge about breeding, seed production, and best practices.
The World Bank-supported Government of India project to create digital identities for fishers will strengthen these services by increasing capacity and raising awareness.
The digital divide, especially in rural areas with limited digital literacy and infrastructure, and fragmentation—where various initiatives lack coordination—are some of the major obstacles.
Another major issue is climate change, which requires adaptive management techniques due to unpredictable weather patterns and resource depletion.
The government should focus on integrating fisheries extension services into existing networks such as Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Expanding digital platforms such as AquaBazaar will provide greater access to information and training.
Fostering public-private partnerships can introduce new technologies and ideas for capacity building.
Developing climate resilience strategies will help fishermen adapt to environmental changes more effectively.
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The way forward is to improve institutional coordination, expand digital platforms, and encourage public-private partnerships. By focusing on sustainable resource management and climate resilience, India can build a more resilient and adaptable fishing industry, which will improve the livelihoods of fishermen, and also ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of India's fisheries and aquaculture sectors. |
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Consider the following statements: 1. India is the world's largest aquaculture producer. 2. Marine fisheries account for nearly 60% of India's total fish production. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) 1 only B) 2 only C) Both 1 and 2 D) Neither 1 nor 2 Answer: D Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: India is the world's second-largest fish producer country, following China. The Blue Revolution emphasised the importance of the Fisheries and Aquaculture sector. The sector is regarded as a sunrise sector and has a significant impact on the Indian economy. Statement 2 is incorrect: Fish production in India has increased from 7.5 lakh MT in 1950-51 to 141 lakh MT by 2022. Until 2000, marine fish production accounted for the vast majority of total fish production in India. In India, inland fisheries have improved and now account for roughly 70% of total fish production, due to science-based practices. |
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