India Ranks Second in Global Fish Production: Union Minister Highlights Achievements and Challenges

New Delhi: India has solidified its position as the second-largest fish-producing country in the world, trailing only behind China, with an impressive 8% share in global fish production. This significant milestone was announced by Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, during a Regional Review Meeting held in Kolkata on August 2, 2025. The meeting, attended by representatives from West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, focused on boosting fish production, addressing challenges in the fisheries sector, and ensuring the effective implementation of government schemes. With a remarkable 103–104% growth in fish production in 2024–25 compared to 2013–14, India’s fisheries sector is witnessing unprecedented progress, driven by government initiatives, regional cooperation, and a focus on sustainable practices.

India’s Fisheries Sector: A Key Economic Contributor

The fisheries sector in India plays a vital role in the nation’s economy, contributing approximately 1.12% to the total national Gross Value Added (GVA) and 7.26% to the agricultural GVA. Employing around 30 million people across the value chain, the sector encompasses both inland and marine fisheries. Inland fish production, which accounts for about 75% of the total fish production, falls primarily under the jurisdiction of state governments, while the marine sector is a shared responsibility between the central and coastal state governments. The Union Government has been actively supporting the states and Union Territories to develop this sector, with the Union Budget 2025–26 allocating the highest-ever annual budgetary support for fisheries.

During the Kolkata meeting, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized the untapped potential of inland fisheries, particularly in states like West Bengal, which is endowed with numerous ponds and water bodies, especially in rural areas. These resources, if utilized effectively, could significantly enhance fish production and contribute to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

Remarkable Growth in Fish Production

India’s fish production has seen a staggering 103% increase in 2024–25 compared to 2013–14, with inland fish production alone growing by 142% over the past decade. This growth is a testament to the success of government initiatives and the active participation of rural communities in fisheries and aquaculture. The minister highlighted that West Bengal, with its abundant traditional water bodies known as pukurs (ponds), holds immense potential to further boost fish output. He urged local bodies and fish farmers to make optimal use of ponds, rivers, and reservoirs to ensure sustainable growth.

The minister also noted a 104% overall growth in fish production during the same period, underscoring the sector’s rapid expansion. However, he stressed the need to increase the share of inland fish in exports, as this segment has significant potential to contribute to India’s global trade.

Government Schemes Driving Fisheries Development

Several flagship schemes were discussed during the Kolkata meeting, with a focus on their implementation and impact. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is a cornerstone initiative aimed at enhancing productivity, sustainability, and employment in the fisheries sector. The scheme promotes modernized fishing techniques, infrastructure development, and sustainable practices. Under PMMSY, aquaculture parks have been established to support fish farmers and improve production efficiency.

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a central sector sub-scheme under PMMSY, was highlighted as a critical tool for providing financial and technical support to fish farmers. The Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) is another key initiative that facilitates the creation of modern infrastructure, such as cold storage and processing units, to strengthen the fisheries value chain.

The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme was also discussed, which provides fish farmers with access to affordable credit to purchase feed, upgrade infrastructure, and adopt advanced technologies. The minister emphasized the need for greater awareness and utilization of KCC among fish farmers to maximize its benefits.

Additionally, the Blue Revolution Scheme has played a pivotal role in transforming India’s fisheries sector by promoting sustainable aquaculture and fisheries management. The 5th Marine Fisheries Census was cited as a vital tool for data-driven policymaking, enabling the government to make informed decisions to enhance the sector’s growth. India’s endorsement of the Regional Plan of Action on Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing, in collaboration with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Maldives, was also highlighted as a step toward combating IUU fishing in the Bay of Bengal region.

Challenges Facing the Fisheries Sector

Despite its achievements, the fisheries sector faces several challenges that require urgent attention. These include:

• Environmental Challenges: Overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change pose significant threats to the sustainability of fisheries. The minister emphasized the need for modernized fishing techniques and the revival of initiatives like artificial reefs to address these issues.
• Economic Challenges: Market fluctuations, limited access to financial resources, and the prevalence of IUU fishing continue to hinder the sector’s growth. The minister called for stronger measures to curb IUU fishing and improve market access for fish farmers.
• Social Challenges: Food security, gender inequality, and community displacement are critical issues that need to be addressed to ensure inclusive growth in the sector.
• Infrastructure and Resource Management: Gaps in infrastructure, such as inadequate cold storage and processing facilities, and inefficiencies in resource management remain significant hurdles. The minister proposed the establishment of a developed dry fish cluster in West Bengal to boost local employment and exports.

West Bengal’s Role in Fisheries Growth

During the Regional Review Meeting, the minister expressed concern over the low registration of fish farmers with the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) in West Bengal. With only a fraction of the state’s 32 lakh fish farmers currently registered, many are unable to access central benefits under schemes like PM-MKSSY. The minister urged the state government to fast-track NFDP registrations to ensure that fish farmers can fully leverage government support.

He also emphasized the need for better utilization of traditional water bodies, the development of cooperative structures for fishers, and the creation of a robust processing ecosystem. The adoption of new technologies and improved training facilities were identified as essential for sustainable growth in the state’s fisheries sector.

Transgender Welfare: A Parallel Policy Focus

In addition to fisheries, the document highlights India’s progressive policies for transgender welfare, which were discussed in the context of inclusive development. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, defines a transgender person as someone whose gender identity does not align with the gender assigned at birth. According to the 2011 Census, India’s transgender population is approximately 4.8 lakh. The landmark NALSA Judgment (2014) by the Supreme Court recognized transgender individuals as the “third gender” and affirmed their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution.

The 2019 Act mandates certification of gender identity by a District Magistrate, which has been criticized for infringing on the right to self-identify. To address this, the government has introduced policies allowing transgender and intersex individuals to choose their gender—male, female, or transgender—without requiring medical procedures or certificates. Steps are also being taken to amend the Hindu Succession Act and Indian Succession Act to ensure inheritance rights for transgender individuals.

Challenges Faced by Transgender Persons

Transgender individuals face numerous challenges, including:

• Legal and Identity Issues: The requirement for gender certification by a District Magistrate limits self-identification rights.
• Social Discrimination: Cultural perceptions of gender non-conformity as deviant lead to ostracism, physical and sexual violence, and marginalization.
• Education Barriers: Lack of inclusive curricula and bullying contribute to high dropout rates among transgender students.
• Healthcare Challenges: Limited access to gender-affirmative healthcare and high prevalence of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, due to societal non-acceptance.
• Economic Exclusion: Hiring biases and workplace hostility restrict economic opportunities for transgender individuals.

Government Initiatives for Transgender Welfare

Several schemes have been introduced to support the transgender community:

• SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) Scheme: Provides comprehensive welfare support, including livelihood opportunities, for transgender individuals.
• National Portal for Transgender Persons: Enables transgender individuals to obtain online certificates of identity.
• Gender Inclusion Fund: Under the National Education Policy, this fund aims to provide quality education to girls and transgender individuals.
• Garima Grehas: Shelter homes designed to support transgender persons.
• PM-DAKSH (Dakshta aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi): Offers skill training to empower transgender individuals economically.

Regional Cooperation and Future Roadmap

The Regional Review Meeting in Kolkata, attended by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, and Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, underscored the importance of central-state coordination and efficient delivery mechanisms for fisheries-related schemes. Senior officials from the Department of Fisheries and the participating state governments presented briefings on the progress of flagship schemes, including PMMSY, FIDF, KCC, and PM-MKSSY.

The minister emphasized the need for institutional support and a roadmap for improved outcomes in the eastern states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. He called for enhanced cooperation to address implementation gaps and ensure that schemes reach their intended beneficiaries.

Conclusion

India’s rise to the second rank in global fish production is a remarkable achievement, driven by robust government schemes, regional cooperation, and the dedication of millions of fish farmers. With a 103–104% growth in fish production and a 142% increase in inland fisheries over the past decade, the sector is poised for further expansion. However, challenges such as overfishing, infrastructure gaps, and social issues must be addressed to ensure sustainable growth. Parallel efforts to promote transgender welfare reflect India’s commitment to inclusive development. By leveraging schemes like PMMSY, NFDP, and SMILE, and fostering central-state collaboration, India is well on its way to strengthening its fisheries sector and ensuring equitable opportunities for all its citizens.

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