Celebrated annually on November 21, World Fisheries Day shines a spotlight on sustainable fishing practices and the importance of aquatic ecosystems. This global event aims to raise awareness about the challenges facing fishing communities, such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and illegal fishing practices. It also emphasizes the need to empower small-scale fishers, who often belong to marginalized communities worldwide.
The idea of World Fisheries Day first took root back in 1997 when the World Forum of Fish Harvesters and Fish Workers came together in New Delhi, India. Delegates from 18 nations formed this forum to advocate for sustainable fishing policies.
Significance of Fisheries
The fisheries sector is not just about catching fish; it plays a pivotal role, especially for countries like India, where the industry significantly contributes to domestic food security and global seafood markets. India ranks as the third-largest fish producer and the second-largest aquaculture nation globally, showcasing its influence on the world fisheries scene.
Support from the fisheries sector is invaluable for around 30 million people, primarily from coastal and rural communities. The industry has seen a significant transition as India shifts its focus from marine-dominated practices to cultivating inland fisheries, boosting what's known as the blue economy.
India's Celebration of World Fisheries Day 2024
Theme for 2024
The overarching theme for this year, “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Small-Scale and Sustainable Fisheries,” highlights India’s dedication to inclusive growth and sustainable practices within the fisheries sector.
Key Initiatives and Celebrations
On November 21, 2024, the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) is set to host celebratory events at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi, with Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh presiding over the occasion.
Major Initiatives to be Launched:- 5th Marine Fisheries Census: Aiming to gather data to help inform and shape effective policies.
- National Plan of Action (NPOA) on Sharks: Focused on the conservation of shark species.
- Bay of Bengal-Regional Plan of Action (BoB-RPOA): Targeting illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- IMO-FAO GloLitter Partnership Project: Addressing marine plastic pollution.
- Retrofitted LPG Kits: Promoting energy-efficient fishing methods.
- Single Window System for Coastal Aquaculture: Streamlined online registration for aquaculture practices.
- Voluntary Carbon Market Framework: Introducing carbon trading mechanisms within the fisheries sector.
Technical Sessions
To bolster knowledge-sharing and collaboration, key discussions on challenges like climate change impacts on fisheries will take place, focusing on strategies such as carbon credits and plastic management.
Awards and Recognition
The event also aims to honor outstanding states, individuals, and entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the growth of fisheries and aquaculture.
India's Global Contributions to Fisheries
Leading Global Fisheries
India’s fisheries sector is often described as a “sunrise sector,” with the country being recognized as one of the leading stakeholders internationally, holding the title of the third largest fish producer and the largest shrimp producer globally.
The growth has been remarkable, with 70% of the fish production stemming from inland sources, reflecting the industry's significant shift from marine to inland cultures.
Government Initiatives Supporting the Fisheries Sector
The Blue Revolution
The Blue Revolution Integrated Development and Management Fisheries Scheme, introduced to increase fish production and productivity, focuses on both marine and inland fisheries.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Launched with the ambitious goal of doubling fisheries exports to ₹1 lakh crore, this initiative aims to create 55 lakh jobs and emphasizes improving aquaculture productivity.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
Introduced to fund various infrastructure projects within the fisheries sector, with attractive interest subvention rates.
Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE)
Established as a center of excellence focusing on sustainable aquaculture practices, CIFE has trained over 4,000 professionals since its inception.
Encouraging Sustainable Fishing Practices
Regulations for Conservation
The National Policy on Marine Fisheries aims to create sustainable practices by imposing bans on destructive fishing methods and encouraging the establishment of artificial reefs to bolster fish populations.
Investment and Budget Allocations
The Department of Fisheries is witnessing historic budget allocations, with ₹2,584.50 crore designated for the fiscal year 2024-25, pointing to the government's commitment to expand infrastructure and sustainable practices.
Celebrations Across the Globe
Ghana’s Events
Shifting Focus Towards Small-Scale Fisheries
The association has urged for legislative reforms to strengthen the rights and welfare of small-scale fishers, including implementing the SSF Guidelines—a landmark set of policies adopted internationally to protect and promote sustainable fishing practices.
Notably, Nana Kweigyah, the National President of CaFGOAG, emphasized the necessity of integrating these guidelines within Ghana's Fisheries Act, advocating for more substantial support for artisanal fisheries which are integral to community livelihoods.
Combining Efforts for Better Well-being
The focus on social safety nets like direct cash transfers and pension schemes has been voiced as integral for the long-term sustainability of the fishing community. CaFGOAG has proposed set-asides from the fisheries development fund dedicated to supporting artisanal initiatives.
Solidarity messages from local officials, including the Western Regional Minister, have echoed the necessity of prioritizing the welfare of fishers to achieve ecological and economic balance.
India’s Ground-Level Impacts
The emphasis on sustainable practices is showing effects not just globally but also within India, particularly as fishing communities start to explore cooperative societies conducive to welfare interventions, education, and health support for their families.
With World Fisheries Day celebrations serving as both reminders and calls to action, the concerted efforts on sustainable fisheries resonate deeply across communities, urging stakeholders from governments to local associations to prioritize not only the resources of oceans and rivers but also the livelihoods of the communities reliant upon them.
World Fisheries Day stands not only as a celebration but as a powerful message about the collective responsibility to protect our oceans and the communities connected to them.
Whether it’s through legislative advancements, community advocacy, or scientific exploration, the continuing work surrounding World Fisheries Day is pivotal to ensuring the health of both our aquatic ecosystems and the people who depend on them.
