Agatti (Lakshadweep), Aug 31 (IANS) Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan said on Monday that conservation of marine resources and adherence to responsible fishing practices are essential to ensure long-term prosperity of the fisheries sector and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Releasing the “Mission Rangeen Machhli 2031” Strategic Action Plan for Ornamental Fisheries Development in Agatti, Lakshadweep, the Vice President highlighted the enabling framework announced by the government for sustainable harvesting of fisheries resources from the EEZ and High Seas, stating that it would empower fishers to responsibly access deep-sea resources and benefit from new opportunities.
Describing Lakshadweep as a priceless maritime asset of the nation, he said its immense fisheries potential is supported by a 4,200 sq. km lagoon area and an Exclusive Economic Zone of nearly 4 lakh sq. km.
He emphasised that Lakshadweep possesses an estimated fisheries potential of over one lakh tonnes, including about 94,000 tonnes of tuna and tuna-like species, and underscored the importance of scientific harvesting, digital authorisation systems, vessel monitoring, international certification and sustainable fishing practices to enhance fishers’ incomes and strengthen India’s position in global seafood markets.
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India organised a Fisheries Outreach Programme on Monday.
The Vice President noted that the outreach programme reflects the collective commitment of the Government of India, Lakshadweep Administration, scientific institutions and fishing communities towards ushering in a new era of sustainable growth and prosperity through the Blue Economy.
During the event, the Vice President distributed Benefits to beneficiaries under PMMSY which included support for acquisition of Deep-Sea Fishing Vessels (DSFVs) for traditional fishermen, promotion of recreational fisheries aligned with the tourism potential of the islands, provision of safety kits for traditional and motorised fishing vessels, facilitation of Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) for fishermen, assistance for replacement of old fishing boats and nets, and supply of communication and tracking devices.
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, said the outreach programme reflects the government’s commitment to understanding the needs of Lakshadweep’s fishing communities and preparing a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing fishers’ incomes, strengthening infrastructure, improving safety at sea, promoting value addition and expanding market access.
–IANS
rch/dpb