New Delhi has solidified its position as a powerhouse in the global fisheries and aquaculture sector, according to Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, popularly known as Lalan Singh. Speaking at an international conference attended by diplomats from 40 countries, the minister highlighted how robust government policies, enhanced processing capabilities, and streamlined logistics have doubled India’s seafood export value over the past decade.
India is ramping up compliance and transparency through initiatives like the National Traceability Framework 2025, Special Economic Zone Rules 2025, and updated High Seas Fishing Guidelines 2025. These measures aim to foster sustainable, export-driven growth, particularly in strategic regions such as the Andaman-Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
The minister outlined vast opportunities for collaboration in modern aquaculture and mariculture technologies, advanced processing, cold chain infrastructure, vessel design, digital monitoring, joint research, technology transfer, climate resilience, sustainable fisheries management, trade expansion, and private sector involvement.
The conference underscored growing international partnerships in fisheries and seafood trade. Key pillars of cooperation included climate change impacts on ocean health, sustainable development, responsible fishing practices, technology transfer, green innovations, capacity building, supply chain enhancements, ornamental fish farming, and seaweed cultivation.
Union Minister of State Professor S.P. Singh Baghel emphasized seafood’s role as a vital nutrition source, contributing to global food security, massive employment generation, and economic strengthening. The Fisheries Department is adopting a comprehensive value-chain strategy from production to export to ensure long-term sustainability.
Minister of State George Kurien spotlighted the rapid surge in India’s aquaculture production. With seafood exports targeting Rs 1 lakh crore, the sector has seen a 21% value increase in the last seven months, signaling robust momentum and promising future prospects.
