Why in the news?

  • The Union Government notified the rules for ‘Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)’ to give priority to shermen cooperative societies and sh farmer producer organisations (FFPOs) for undertaking deep-sea shing operations and managing technologically advanced vessels.

Deep Sea Fishing

  • Definition: Deep sea fishing is the practice of catching fish and other marine species from deep ocean waters, usually beyond 12 nautical miles from the coast, extending up to 200 nautical miles (EEZ).
  • Objectives
    • To harness untapped marine resources in offshore waters.
    • To reduce overfishing pressure in coastal zones.
    • To boost export earnings and fishers’ income.
    • To align with India’s Blue Economy goals.
  • Focus Species: Tuna, swordfish, mackerel, sardines, shrimps, squids, anchovies, deep-water lobsters, etc.
  • Features
    • Conducted using mechanized vessels (trawlers, longliners, purse seiners).
    • Vessels have on-board freezing, sonar, and navigation systems.
    • Fishing grounds lie beyond 12 nautical miles in the EEZ.
  • Importance
    • Enhances food and nutritional security.
    • Generates employment and exports.
    • Aids in balanced use of marine resources.
    • Supports India’s SAGAR vision and Blue Economy framework.
  • Challenges
    • High investment costs and maintenance of vessels.
    • Lack of skilled manpower and training.
    • Conflict between traditional coastal fishers and deep-sea trawlers.
    • Environmental concerns like overfishing and bycatch.
    • Inadequate port and storage facilities. 
  • Government Initiatives
    • Marine Fisheries Policy (2017): Encourages sustainable deep-sea fishing and modernization of the fleet.
    • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Financial support for deep-sea vessels and marine infrastructure.
    • Blue Revolution Scheme: Promotes advanced fishing technology and export-oriented marine production.
    • FIDF (Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund): Provides loans for deep-sea fishing vessels and cold chains.
  • Way Forward
    • Promote eco-friendly fishing practices and marine ecosystem protection.
    • Strengthen monitoring, control, and surveillance systems (MCS).
    • Encourage public-private partnerships and fisher cooperatives.
    • Build marine research and skill development capacity.