Sagar Parikrama | 23 Feb 2023

Why in News?

The Sagar Parikrama Phase III, a program by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and National Fisheries Development Board, was started on 19^th Feb 2023 from Surat, Gujarat.

What are the Major Highlights of the Program?

• The main objectives of the program are to disseminate information about various fisheries related schemes and programs, promoting responsible fisheries with a focus on sustainable balance, and protection of marine ecosystems.
• The Phase-I of the program started in March 2022 from Mandvi and ended on 6^th March 2022 at Porbandar, Gujarat.
• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) cards were distributed to fishers and fish farmers.
• It was also declared that the Satpati Fish Market would be inaugurated according to the state-of-the-art standards.

What is Sagar Parikrama?

• About:
  • It is a navigation journey to be conducted in all coastal states/UTs through a pre-decided sea route to demonstrate solidarity with all fisherfolk, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders.
• Significance:
  • It will focus on sustainable balance between the utilisation of marine fisheries resources for food security of the nation and livelihoods of coastal fisher communities and protection of marine ecosystems.

What is the Status of the Fisheries Sector in India?

• About:
  • India is the second major producer of fish through aquaculture in the world.
  • India is the 4^th largest exporter of fish in the world as it contributes 7.7% to the global fish production.
    • Also, India ranks 1^st in inland capture fish production and 3^rd in overall fish production in the world.
  • Currently, this sector provides livelihood to more than 2.8 crore people within the country.
• Initiatives related to Fisheries Sector:
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
  • Palk Bay Scheme
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
• Challenges Related to India’s Fishery Sector:
  • Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: IUU fishing is a significant problem in India's fishery sector, and it often goes undetected.
    • IUU fishing can lead to a decline in fish stocks, and it also puts legitimate fishers at a disadvantage.
  • Lack of Infrastructure: The fishery sector in India lacks adequate infrastructure, such as cold storage, processing facilities, and transportation, which results in post-harvest losses and limits access to higher-value markets.
  • Limited Access to Credit: Small-scale fishers in India often struggle to access credit, which hinders their ability to invest in their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
  • Climate Change: Climate change is impacting India's fishery sector, causing changes in fish distribution and affecting fish reproduction rates.
  • It also leads to increased risks of natural disasters, such as cyclones and flooding, which can destroy fishing boats and infrastructure.

Way Forward

• Promoting Sustainable Fishing Practices: The government can encourage sustainable fishing practices such as promoting responsible fishing techniques and setting quotas and restrictions to prevent overfishing. This will ensure the longevity of fish stocks and protect the livelihoods of fishers.
• Strengthening IUU Fishing Regulations: The government should strengthen regulations to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. This can include measures such as satellite monitoring of fishing boats and penalties for violators.
• Developing Infrastructure: Investment in infrastructure such as cold storage facilities, processing plants, and transportation will improve the quality of fish products and reduce post-harvest losses.

Source: PIB