Catch of the Day: India Empowers Small Fishers and Cooperatives with Revolutionary Policies

On November 4, 2025, the Government of India announced new EEZ Fisheries Rules aimed at transforming the marine fisheries sector by empowering small-scale fishers and cooperatives. The rules prioritize fishermen cooperative societies and FFPOs for deep-sea fishing operations, granting them preferential access to modern vessels and infrastructure.

The policy introduces the innovative mother-and-child vessel model to facilitate mid-sea transshipment, particularly benefiting the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands, which constitute nearly 49% of India’s EEZ. The initiative supports value addition, traceability, certification, and enhanced seafood exports with a focus on high-value species like tuna.

Sustainability is central, with prohibitions on harmful fishing practices such as LED light fishing, pair trawling, and bull trawling. Fisheries Management Plans will be developed in consultation with stakeholders to conserve biodiversity, including setting minimum legal fish sizes.

The government also commits to supporting fishers through training, international exposure, capacity building, and affordable credit access under schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund.

Key Highlights:

Government notified Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in EEZ Rules, 2025​

Priority access for fishermen cooperatives and FFPOs for deep-sea fishing and modern vessel operations​

Introduction of mother-and-child vessel concept to boost exports from island regions​

Firm stance against destructive fishing methods and promotion of sustainable mariculture​

Capacity building, training, and affordable credit via flagship government schemes​

Enhanced focus on value addition, traceability, and certification to increase seafood export competitiveness​

Sources: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, The Statesman, DD News, Indian Cooperative, Times of India