Centre eyes global eco-labelling tag for Lakshadweep tuna fisheries
Tuna fish catch
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T_APPALANAIDU
In a major boost to India’s seafood sector, the Centre has announced plans to secure global eco-labelling tag for Lakshadweep tuna fisheries using traditional fishing methods.
Union Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said global certification and traceability are the next major interventions in India’s fisheries sector. The Government will take steps to obtain globally recognised eco-labelling certification for the pole-and-line and hand-line tuna fisheries of Lakshadweep which have low environmental impact and positive social benefits, the Minister said.
He was interacting at a consultative meeting on the development of fisheries sector in Lakshadweep with a special focus on tuna fisheries, seaweed and ornamental fisheries.
This move aims to promote the sustainability of these traditional fishing methods, providing market access and premium prices for eco-certified tuna products. “With proper certification and market access, Lakshadweep tuna can fetch premium prices, benefiting artisanal fishers in the archipelago”, the Minister said.
He said that seaweed farming and ornamental fisheries are highly prospective in the Island, with a strong potential for women’s participation and community-based livelihood enhancement.
Referring to the Government’s plan on deep sea fishing, the Union Minister said legal instruments for enabling sustainable fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and High Seas are underway in consultation with the coastal states and UTs.
The Central Government is committed to advancing the sector with a focus on sustainable harness of deep-sea resources, he added.
Representatives from various ministries and agencies, including NITI Aayog, Marine Products Export Development Authority, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutes, and NABARD attended the meeting.
The event was jointly organised by the National Fisheries Development Board and Fishery Survey of India.
Praful Patel, Lakshadweep Administrator highlighted that 4000 square metre lagoon in Lakshadweep holds immense potential for seaweed cultivation, offering new avenues to improve the livelihoods of islanders. The region can emerge as the global hub for seaweed farming.
Published on September 21, 2025
