Context

The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India is celebrating the ‘World Fisheries Day’ on 21^st November 2020.

The celebrations serve to focus on changing the way the world manages global fisheries to ensure sustainable stocks and healthy ecosystems.

Aim

To draw attention to overfishing, habitat destruction and other serious threats to the sustainability of our marine and inland resources.

Reason for celebration

It is being celebrated to demonstrate solidarity with all fisherfolk, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders throughout the world.

History

It started in 1997 where “World Forum of Fish Harvesters & Fish Workers” met at New Delhi leading to formation of “World Fisheries Forum” with representatives from 18 countries and signed a declaration advocating for a global mandate of sustainable fishing practices and policies

India and fishing sector

• The Government of India is transforming the sector and to usher in economic revolution through Blue Revolution in the country.
• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana” (PMMSY) was launched this year in September and aims to achieve fish production to 22 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2024-25 and also to create an additional employment opportunity to about 55 lakh people.
• India is leading fish producing country and second major producer of fish through aquaculture in the world.
• Fisheries sector in India provides direct employment to about 28 million fishers and fish farmers besides meeting the food and nutritional security and foreign exchange earnings.
• India contributes about 7.7% to the global fish production and country ranks 4^th in global exports of fish products. 

Blue Revolution

Integrated Development and Management of Fisheries' Foreseeing high potential, the Hon’ble Prime Minister has called for “a revolution” in the fisheries sector and has named it as “Blue Revolution”. The Blue Revolution, with its multi-dimensional activities, focuses mainly on increasing fisheries production and productivity from aquaculture and fisheries resources, both inland and marine.

Objectives

• To increase the overall fish production in a responsible and sustainable manner for economic prosperity
• To modernize the fisheries with special focus on new technologies
• To ensure food and nutritional security
• To generate employment and export earnings
• To ensure inclusive development and empower fishers and aquaculture farmers

Source: PIB