Rising production levels
India’s Marine Fish Production Reaches Record Growth: India’s marine fish production touched 44.95 lakh tonnes in 2023–24, rising from 34.76 lakh tonnes in 2020–21. The annual growth rate of 8.9% highlights strong government focus on both productivity and sustainability. The announcement was made in Parliament by Minister of State George Kurian.
Static GK fact: India ranks second globally in fish production, contributing over 7% of total global output.
Sustainability status of fish stocks
A study conducted by ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in 2022 revealed that 91.1% of 135 marine fish stocks were biologically sustainable. This reflects improved scientific management practices and regulatory frameworks in the fisheries sector.
Static GK fact: ICAR-CMFRI was established in 1947 and is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala.
Climate resilience through NICRA
The National Innovation in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) has played a major role in climate-based research for fisheries. It focuses on climate trend analysis, species distribution studies, and catch projections. Coastal and inland states including Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Kerala are covered under these initiatives.
Research has expanded to include ocean acidification studies, blue carbon assessments, and adaptive ecosystem management. Ongoing capacity-building programmes aim to prepare fishing communities for climate risks.
Role of PM Matsya Sampada Yojana
The PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) forms the backbone of marine fishery reforms. It integrates climate adaptation strategies such as artificial reef development, sea ranching, and the creation of 100 climate-resilient coastal villages, each supported with ₹2 crore funding by the Centre.
Infrastructure is being strengthened with 58 fishing harbours and landing centres, supported by an outlay of ₹3,281.31 crore. The scheme also includes cold storage facilities, value addition units, and a network of over 27,000 refrigerated transport units to reduce post-harvest losses.
Static GK Tip: PMMSY was launched in 2020 with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, making it the largest fisheries development programme in India.
Future outlook
India’s marine sector is shifting towards sustainable practices backed by modern research and strong policy frameworks. With enhanced infrastructure, ecological restoration projects, and climate adaptation strategies, India is positioning itself as a global leader in resilient marine fisheries.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India’s Marine Fish Production Reaches Record Growth:
| Topic | Detail |
| Marine fish production 2023–24 | 44.95 lakh tonnes |
| Growth rate | 8.9% annually |
| Production in 2020–21 | 34.76 lakh tonnes |
| Minister announcing data | George Kurian |
| Sustainable stock assessment | 91.1% of 135 fish stocks |
| ICAR-CMFRI HQ | Kochi, Kerala |
| States under NICRA fisheries research | Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Kerala |
| Climate-resilient fishing villages | 100 villages with ₹2 crore each |
| Fishing harbours and landing centres | 58 projects, ₹3,281.31 crore outlay |
| Transport units for fisheries | 27,000+ refrigerated units |
