Economy

Collaborative research on marine mammal assume significance ahead of US deadline

A collaborative research work on marine mammal conservation in Indian waters has assumed greater significance in anticipation of the US’ impending enforcement of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) in 2026.

The US law mandates that seafood exporting nations should implement conservation strategies, including stock assessment and by-catch assessment, to ensure the protection of marine mammals.

India launched the research in 2020, bringing together key institutions like ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Fishery Survey of India (FSI), Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), and ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT).

CMFRI has identified 30 marine mammal species within Indian waters and completed the stock assessments for 21 of them, said Ratheesh Kumar Raveendran, Principal Investigator of the marine mammal research project at CMFRI. These identified species include six whales, one porpoise, one sea cow and 22 dolphins, he said.

Researchers are also investigating methods to reduce by-catch — the accidental capture of marine mammals in fishing gear — a key factor in determining India’s compliance with the MMPA.

An interim report detailing India’s findings on marine mammal stock and availability has been submitted on the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website.

The current research focuses on mitigating marine mammal-fishery interactions. One promising approach involves the use of “pingers” — acoustic devices attached to fishing nets that emit sounds designed to deter marine mammals. These experiments aim to find effective and practical solutions to minimize bycatch without impacting fishing activities.

With the 2026 deadline approaching, India’s proactive research and conservation initiatives demonstrate its commitment to protecting marine mammals and ensuring continued access to the US seafood market.



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