Raising India’s fishery production to 40 million tonnes possible, says ICAR
This high growth is attributed to increased investment, scientific advancements, and supportive government policies
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H.VIBHU
India has the potential to boost its fisheries production from 18 million tonnes (mt) to 40 mt by 2047, provided both state and Central governments implement key policy changes, said JK Jena, a Deputy Director-General at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Jena clarified that the 40 mt target reflects India’s vast potential, not necessarily its immediate need. He noted the sector’s robust growth, currently at 9 per cent annually, significantly higher than the global average of 2.5 per cent and China’s 4 per cent, and an acceleration from India’s own 6 per cent growth over the past four decades.
This high growth is attributed to increased investment, scientific advancements, and supportive government policies. Jena highlighted the availability of 50 different fish seed species today, compared to only carps previously, offering diverse farming options. He also pointed to the positive impact of technically qualified individuals entering the sector with innovative ideas.
On-vessel processing
In marine fisheries, current production of nearly 4 mt can be raised to 5.3 mt through new techniques and better identification of fishing zones. Deep-sea resources, estimated at 2 mt, primarily consist of lower-value fish like squids, requiring specialized factory vessels for harvesting.
Jena emphasised that while India produces high-value tuna, its quality often degrades by the time it reaches shore, leading to lower prices ($1.5-2 vs. $5-7 for others). On-vessel processing could address this. He also advocated for permitting deep-water cage culture, an area with huge potential, especially off the Andaman coast, for which the government is developing a policy.
Improved fish varieties from selective breeding offer 40-60 per cent higher growth. Replacing older carp stock with these could increase carp production from 8 mt to a target of 12 mt within the next 8-10 years.”
Published on May 23, 2025
