India Showcases Leadership in Sustainable Fisheries at Global Congress in Thailand, Highlights 19.7 MT Output

Addressing the congress, Dr. Likhi underscored the critical role of small-scale fisheries in driving food security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.

India has reaffirmed its global leadership in fisheries and sustainable ocean governance, with Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, leading a high-level delegation at the 5th World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress being held in Hua Hin, Thailand from April 27 to 30, 2026.

The prestigious global event, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and TBTI Global, has drawn participation from around 50 countries and over 300 delegates, featuring 45 technical sessions focused on advancing equitable, sustainable, and climate-resilient fisheries systems.

India Highlights Strong Growth and Global Standing

Addressing the congress, Dr. Likhi underscored the critical role of small-scale fisheries in driving food security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. He highlighted that India is now the world's second-largest fish producer, achieving a record output of 19.7 million tonnes, with seafood exports witnessing strong growth due to modernization and innovation.

He also emphasized India's commitment to:

• Sustainable and traceable fisheries systems

• Digital transformation in the fisheries sector

• Community-driven and inclusive governance models

• Strengthened regional cooperation through BOBP-IGO, where India currently holds the Chair

Focus on Inclusive and Community-Centric Policies

Dr. Likhi participated as a panelist in a key FAO session on the National Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries (NPOA-SSF), where global experts discussed frameworks for sustainable fisheries governance.

He stressed that small-scale fisheries are central not only to economic activity but also to cultural identity and coastal resilience, particularly in the Bay of Bengal region.

Highlighting the diversity of the sector, he called for flexible, inclusive, and ecosystem-based governance frameworks that reflect local realities and ensure participation of marginalized communities across the value chain.

Global Sector: Backbone of Fisheries Economy

The congress spotlighted the immense global importance of small-scale fisheries, which:

• Employ nearly 90% of the world's fishers

• Contribute around 40% of total fish production

• Play a vital role in nutrition, poverty reduction, and gender equity

However, the sector faces significant challenges, including climate change, resource degradation, tenure insecurity, and competition from industrial fishing.

India's Policy Push for Fisher Welfare

In India, small-scale fisheries dominate marine activities, supporting around 4 million fishers, primarily operating within territorial waters.

The government has been actively strengthening the sector through:

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

• Promotion of Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs)

• Institutional support through cooperatives

• Regulatory reforms such as the EEZ Rules 2025

These initiatives aim to enhance sustainability, improve incomes, and build resilience against climate and market risks.

A Global Call for Regenerative and Youth-Driven Fisheries

The congress theme—"Small-scale fisheries for advancing just harmony, young futures, and regenerative wisdom"—highlights the need to empower youth, promote traditional knowledge, and adopt climate-friendly practices.

Participants emphasized that successful implementation of fisheries policies requires:

• Strong institutional capacity

• Access to finance and infrastructure

• Inclusive consultations and decentralized governance

• Integration with national development schemes

Strengthening India's Role in Global Ocean Governance

India's active participation and leadership at the global forum reinforce its commitment to sustainable fisheries management, regional cooperation, and inclusive growth.

As the world grapples with climate challenges and food security concerns, India's model of combining traditional knowledge with modern innovation is emerging as a key pathway for building resilient and equitable fisheries systems.