The Indian government is focusing on enhancing deep-sea fishing capacity to boost seafood exports and achieve a target of ₹1 lakh crore in the near future.
Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian highlighted this initiative, emphasising the need for advanced fishing vessels to explore deeper waters and increase fish catch.
Speaking to the media in Indore, Kurian said that the government is taking significant steps to strengthen the fisheries sector.
He explained that modern vessels capable of travelling up to 200 nautical miles or beyond would be promoted, allowing fishermen to access richer fishing grounds and improve their overall yield.
India’s seafood exports currently stand at ₹60,523 crore annually. The government is working towards expanding deep-sea fishing infrastructure and technology to scale up this figure.
By adopting advanced fishing methods and increasing offshore operations, the fisheries sector is expected to contribute more significantly to the economy.
Before addressing the media, the Union minister attended an event in the Depalpur region of Indore district, where he encouraged fishermen to register on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP).
This initiative, launched by the Union Fisheries Department in 2024, aims to streamline data collection, provide better access to government schemes, and support the fishing community.
Kurian stressed the importance of NFDP registration, urging all stakeholders, including fisheries cooperative societies and entrepreneurs, to take full advantage of the platform.
The digital system is expected to improve policy planning, ensure better welfare measures for fishermen, and enhance transparency in the sector.
The event witnessed participation from around 1,500 fisheries cooperative societies, fishermen, and entrepreneurs. Officials at the event noted that Madhya Pradesh currently has nearly two lakh registered fishermen.
The state’s annual fish production stands at 3.82 lakh tonnes, contributing significantly to the country’s seafood industry.
More than 60,000 fishermen from Madhya Pradesh have already registered on the NFDP. The government hopes to expand this number further to ensure wider access to benefits, training programmes, and financial assistance.
By increasing awareness and participation, officials believe the digital platform will strengthen the fisheries sector and help achieve the ambitious export target.
The push for deep-sea fishing comes at a time when global seafood demand is rising. With India’s vast coastline and rich marine resources, the government is looking to maximise the potential of the fisheries industry.
Investments in technology, infrastructure, and sustainable fishing practices are expected to play a crucial role in achieving the export target.
In addition to promoting deep-sea fishing, the government is also focusing on sustainable practices to maintain ecological balance. Overfishing and depletion of marine resources have been concerns in recent years.
By adopting advanced techniques and ensuring responsible fishing, India aims to maintain a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
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