India is the second-largest fish-producing country with 8 percent share in global production: Ministry

Over the past two decades, India's fisheries sector has witnessed significant growth and transformation, the Ministry said on Saturday.

From technological advancements to policy reforms, the period from 2004 to 2024 has been marked by milestones that have bolstered India's position in global fisheries and aquaculture.

The Union Budget 2025-26, proposed the highest ever total annual budgetary support of Rs. 2,703.67 crores for the fisheries sector.

The 2025-26 budget announcement strategically focuses on enhancing financial inclusion, reducing financial burden on farmers by reducing custom duties and furthering development of the marine fisheries.

The Ministry said the Budget 2025-26 highlights enabling a framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries from Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and High Seas with special focus on Lakshadweep and A&N Islands.

This will ensure sustainable harnessing of the untapped potential of the marine fish resources in the Indian EEZ and adjacent High Seas for growth in the marine sector.

The Government of India also increased the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) lending limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh to enhance credit accessibility for fishers, farmers, processors and other fisheries’ stakeholders.

This move aims at streamlining the flow of financial resources ensuring that necessary funds are easily accessible for fulfilling working capital requirements of the sector.

Increase in Production: Fish production increased to an impressive 184.02 lakh tons (2023-24) from 95.79 lakh tons (2013-14) and 63.99 lakh tons (2003-04) registering an increase of 88.23 lakh tons in 10 years (2014-24) as compared to an increase of 31.80 lakh tons (2004-14).

Increase in Inland and Aquaculture Fish Production: A tremendous increase of 77.71 lakh tons was achieved in Inland and Aquaculture fish production from 2014-24 as against the 26.78 lakh tons achieved from 2004-14.

The marine fish production doubled to 10.52 lakh tons (2004-14) from 5.02 lakh tons (2014-24).

As reported by Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), during the financial year 2023-24, India exported 17,81,602 MT of Seafood worth ₹ 60,523.89 Cr. The export value has witnessed a significant jump from 609.95 Cr in 2003-04.