The Government of India is making strides in addressing climate change’s impact on fisheries while boosting opportunities for marine development. Through strategic initiatives, the Department of Fisheries (DoF) is focusing on sustainable practices, improved livelihoods for fishers, and innovation in aquaculture.
Focus on Climate-Resilient Fisheries
The DoF, in collaboration with research institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), is studying how climate change affects fisheries. These studies aim to develop strategies that ensure sustainability and resilience in both traditional fishing and aquaculture.
Major Initiatives in Fisheries Development
The government has launched several programs to enhance the fisheries sector:
- Blue Revolution Scheme (2015-2020): Focused on comprehensive fisheries development and fishers’ welfare.
- Kisan Credit Card for Fishers: Enabled fishers to access easy and affordable credit.
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Provided concessional loans for fisheries infrastructure.
A landmark initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), launched in 2020 with a ₹200.50 crore investment to boost fisheries nationwide, including Karnataka, over five years (2020-2025).
Karnataka’s Progress Under PMMSY
In Karnataka, the government approved fisheries projects worth ₹1,056.34 crore between 2020 and 2024. These projects focus on a range of activities, including:
- Marine and Inland Fishing Improvements: Supporting fishers with upgraded vessels, export-ready boats, safety kits, and financial assistance during fishing bans.
- Aquaculture Expansion: Promoting innovative techniques such as brackish-water farming, ornamental fish rearing, cage culture, biofloc systems, and recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS).
- Conservation Measures: Installing artificial reefs to protect marine biodiversity.
Seaweed Cultivation: New Opportunities
Seaweed farming is emerging as a significant opportunity under PMMSY. The initiative includes setting up 10,000 seaweed rafts and 21,000 monoline/tube nets in Karnataka. ICAR has identified 24,000 hectares along India’s coastline for seaweed cultivation, including 1,579 hectares in Karnataka.
However, Dakshina Kannada lacks suitable areas for seaweed farming. Most of Karnataka’s identified seaweed zones are in Uttara Kannada, where favorable conditions support this activity.
A Sustainable Future for Fishers
These initiatives aim to maximize the potential of marine and inland fisheries while ensuring sustainability and resilience against climate change. By prioritizing fishers’ welfare and promoting advanced techniques, the government seeks to secure a thriving future for the sector.