Tuna Export Hub in Andaman & Nicobar Islands | 19 Nov 2024

Source: TH 

Recently, the Fisheries Department plans to develop the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Islands as a tuna export hub. 

• The global tuna market is worth USD 41.94 billion and the Indian Ocean is considered the second-largest tuna region, producing 21% of the world's tuna. 
  • As per Marine Products Export Development Authority, India's tuna exports surged by 31.83% in 2023-24, (valued at USD 87.96 million). 
• The majority of the market is made up of four tuna species namely, Skipjack, Yellowfin, Bigeye, and Albacore. 
  • Due to their  vascular system, tunas can uniquely maintain their body temperature above the surrounding water, often between 5 to 12 °C (higher than the ambient temperature). 
• A&N Islands: 
  • This comprises of two island groups (Andman Islands and the Nicobar Islands) which separates the Andaman Sea to the east from the Indian Ocean. 
  • The Ten Degree Channel is a narrow strait that separates both the group of Islands.  
    • Indira Point (situated on Great Nicobar Island) is the southernmost tip of the Nicobar Islands.  
  • The ANI is home to 5 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups: Great Andamanese, Jarwas, Onges, Shompens and North Sentinelese.

Read more: Andaman and Nicobar Islands to be Maritime and Startup Hub