Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting on May 15, 2025, at his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg to review the progress of India's fisheries sector, with special focus on fishing activities in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas.
During the meeting, he emphasized the need to utilize satellite technology not only to improve fish resource management but also to enhance the safety of fishermen. PM Modi also discussed the potential of drones to transform fish transportation and marketing, suggesting their use for moving fish from production centers to urban markets in accordance with civil aviation protocols.
He stressed the importance of modernizing the fisheries sector through the development of smart harbors and advanced fish markets, alongside enhancing packaging and processing infrastructure.
The Prime Minister advocated for increased private sector investment and highlighted the necessity of incorporating "fish tech," similar to how agri-tech has transformed agriculture. He noted that this approach would boost efficiency in production, processing, and marketing within the fisheries value chain.
PM Modi proposed using Amrit Sarovars for fish farming to enhance local livelihoods and conserve water bodies. He also highlighted the potential of promoting ornamental fisheries as a viable income-generating option. To address the needs of landlocked regions, he called for the formulation of a strategy to meet the growing demand for fish in these areas.
Additionally, the Prime Minister suggested exploring seaweed as a resource for fuel, nutrition, and pharmaceutical applications. He advocated for improved coordination among departments to drive innovation in the seaweed sector using modern technology. Discussions also included the capacity building of fishermen and identifying barriers to growth through a negative list of policies or practices that impede progress, aiming to improve the Ease of Doing Business and Living for those in the sector.
A presentation during the meeting reviewed past suggestions, progress made, and future frameworks for sustainable fisheries in the EEZ and high seas. Since 2015, the Government of India has invested Rs 38,572 crore through various schemes such as the Blue Revolution, PMMSY, PM-MKSSY, FIDF, and Kisan Credit Card.
In 2024–25, India recorded a fish production of 1.95 million tons, with the sector experiencing a growth rate exceeding 9%. The meeting was attended by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and top officials from the Prime Minister's Office and the Department of Fisheries.
