New Delhi
The first-ever investors’ meet in Lakshadweep has recorded planned investments worth Rs 519 crore aimed at unlocking the islands’ fisheries and aquaculture potential, government officials said on Sunday. The event was organised by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD) in collaboration with the Union Territory administration.
Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted that new fishing rules for India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) now allow fishermen to legally operate with an “Access Pass.” This enables exports of high-value tuna and other fish products to international markets. He added that, under international law, resources from the EEZ will now be recognised as “Indian Origin,” facilitating trade further.
Singh also mentioned the issuance of ‘High Seas Fishing Guidelines,’ granting Indian-flagged vessels the legal right to fish in these waters. He urged investors to capitalise on opportunities in the islands, particularly in premium species like tuna, which are in strong global demand.
An interactive session allowed investors to highlight challenges such as transportation to the mainland, cold storage, ice plants, and chilled fish handling centres. They also called for value addition facilities, sashimi-grade tuna processing, fish oil refining, skilled labour development, and ornamental fish brood banks to sustainably utilise Lakshadweep’s EEZ.
Minister of State S.P. Singh Baghel emphasised the islands’ untapped potential, noting that current production of 14,000 tonnes could reach 1 lakh tonnes. He praised the clean and sustainable pole-and-line and handline fishing methods used in the islands and encouraged exporters to explore new markets while leveraging government schemes to strengthen the fisheries value chain.
The meet marks a significant step in promoting Lakshadweep as a global hub for sustainable and high-value fisheries, aiming to boost economic growth and employment opportunities in the region.
