India’s Marine Fish Production Hits 44.95 Lakh Tonnes

India’s marine fish production has surged to 44.95 lakh tonnes in 2023–24, up from 34.76 lakh tonnes in 2020–21, recording an impressive average annual growth rate of 8.9%. This growth, announced in Parliament by Minister of State George Kurian, reflects the government’s dual focus on sustainable fishery development and climate-resilient strategies under national programmes like PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and NICRA.

Growth Trends in Marine Fish Production

Steady and Sustainable Growth

The rise in marine fish output over three years underscores the resilience of the sector,

• 2020–21: 34.76 lakh tonnes
• 2023–24: 44.95 lakh tonnes
• Growth Rate: 8.9% annually

This boost aligns with increased research, infrastructure development, and government policy interventions targeting productivity and ecosystem preservation.

Stock Assessment and Sustainability Status

Findings from ICAR-CMFRI

• In 2022, 91.1% of 135 marine fish stocks assessed were found to be biologically sustainable.
• This sustainability level indicates effective regulation and scientific management practices adopted in Indian marine fisheries.

Climate Resilience through Scientific Research

NICRA Initiatives

• Under the National Innovation in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA), various climate adaptation research efforts are underway:
• States covered (Inland and Wetlands): Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Kerala

Research Areas

• Climate trend analysis of river basins
• Fish species distribution shifts
• Catch composition and yield studies
• Marine Sector Research
• Climate change modelling and catch projections
• Ocean acidification studies and blue carbon assessments
• Adaptive management of marine ecosystems
• Ongoing capacity building in coastal states to prepare fishers for climate impacts

PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) – Key Climate Strategy

Ecological and Economic Interventions

PMMSY is central to India’s marine sector reforms, with climate change adaptation embedded in its structure,

• Artificial reefs and sea ranching for ecological restoration
• Development of 100 climate-resilient coastal fishing villages
• Investment: ₹2 crore per village, fully funded by the Centre
• Goal: Economic vibrancy and disaster resilience

Infrastructure Projects

• 58 fishing harbours and landing centres
• Outlay: ₹3,281.31 crore

Additional support for,

• Cold storage
• Retail and wholesale fish markets
• Value addition units
• Post-harvest logistics, including 27,000+ transport units (refrigerated trucks, ice-box-equipped bikes)