India fish production at record 162.48 lakh tonne in 2021-22: Rupala
1 min read . Updated: 19 May 2023, 05:29 PM IST
PremiumWith approximately 8% share in global fish production, India is now the world’s third-largest fish-producing country
New Delhi: India’s fish production hit an all-time high of 162.48 lakh tonne in fiscal year 2021-22, Union minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Parshottam Rupala said on Friday. The minister highlighted the significant role of fish in addressing food security, nutrition, and socio-economic development in the country.
“Fish is an affordable and rich source of healthy animal protein and omega-3 fatty acids, offering immense potential to mitigate hunger and malnutrition," he said. “India is blessed with rich and diverse fisheries resources, and the fisheries sector has become an important pillar of socio-economic growth, providing livelihood, employment, and entrepreneurship to millions of fishers and fish farmers."
Over the past 75 years, the fisheries sector in India has experienced a remarkable transformation, evolving from a traditional activity to a commercial enterprise. India’s fish production has grown 22-fold since independence, from 7.5 lakh tonne in 1950-51 to a record-breaking 162.48 lakh tonne in 2021-22, reflecting a growth rate of 10.34% compared to the previous year. With approximately 8% share in global fish production, India is now the world’s third-largest fish-producing country.
Inland fish production, predominantly driven by aquaculture, has witnessed an extraordinary surge. In 2000-01, inland fish production stood at 28.23 lakh tonne, which rose to 121.21 lakh tonne in 2021-22, marking a remarkable 400% increase. This growth can be attributed to the combined efforts of fisheries scientists, the central and state governments, and the dedication of fishers, fish farmers, and entrepreneurs.
Rupala emphasized the significance of the “Sagar Parikrama" program, which symbolizes a journey along the coastal belt in solidarity with fisherfolk and other stakeholders. “Through various fisheries schemes and programs like Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC), we are committed to resolving the issues faced by the fishing community and facilitating their economic upliftment," the minister added.