Why in news?
The Consultation on Fisheries Sector Reforms was a significant meeting held under the Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) for the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD).
 
Key Highlights from the Consultation:

• The focus is on enhancing production, productivity, and export promotion in the fisheries sector to align with the vision of becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047.
• Emphasis on unlocking untapped export potential of inland states to diversify and strengthen India's seafood export portfolio.
• The target to increase fish productivity from 5 to 7 tons per hectare to maintain global competitiveness.
• Discussions included export market diversification, certification of produce, technology integration in fish processing, cold chain infrastructure, processing capabilities, and traceability systems to meet global benchmarks.
• The sector supports over 8 crore livelihoods directly and indirectly.

Other related initiatives
GST Rate Cuts and Relief 

• GST on fish oils, fish extracts, prepared or preserved fish and shrimp products, and essential inputs like diesel engines, pumps, aerators, chemicals, and micronutrients used in aquaculture has been reduced from 12-18% to 5%, effective from September 22, 2025.

Government Schemes and Policy Initiatives

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): A transformative scheme focusing on boosting fish production, infrastructure development, welfare of fishers, and post-harvest management.
• National Fisheries Policy 2020: Emphasizes sustainable development, resource conservation, improved production, and fisher welfare.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Provides subsidized credit facilities for infrastructure improvements.

Blue Economy and Export Enhancements

• Emphasis on export market diversification, certification of produce, technology integration, cold chain infrastructure, and improving processing capabilities.
• Targeting growth in deep-sea fishing, seaweed cultivation, ornamental fisheries, and development of coastal fishermen villages.
• India is the second-largest fish producer globally with increased seafood exports valued over Rs. 60,000 crores in 2023-24.

Technology and Innovation

• Introduction of digital platforms like National Fisheries Development Program Portal for stakeholder registration and service access.
• Use of drones for fish transportation and monitoring inland fisheries.
• Development of genetically improved fish varieties and specialized clusters for pearl cultivation, seaweed, and ornamental fisheries.

Focus Areas for Sustainability and Inclusion

• Organic fisheries cluster development in states like Sikkim.
• Promotion of eco-friendly pond management through reduced GST on composting machines.
• Special support for small-scale fishers and women’s groups.

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