The event was attended by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who holds the portfolios of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Panchayati Raj. Ministers of State Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel and Shri George Kurian were also present, along with Shri Praful Patel, Administrator of Lakshadweep.
Senior officials from multiple central agencies, financial institutions, research bodies and representatives of fishermen cooperatives participated in the deliberations, highlighting the comprehensive approach adopted to accelerate fisheries development in the islands.
EEZ Reforms to Boost Global Trade
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted major policy reforms in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). He stated that fisheries resources harvested from India’s EEZ will now be recognized as “Indian Origin,” a move expected to significantly enhance export opportunities for Indian fishers.
He further explained that new fishing rules and High Seas Fishing Guidelines allow authorized Indian vessels to operate legally in EEZ waters through an Access Pass system. This reform enables the export of high-value tuna and other marine products to international markets, strengthening India’s position in global seafood trade.
Investors Flag Infrastructure and Value-Addition Needs
An interactive session provided investors with a platform to share operational challenges and expectations. Key concerns included limited transportation connectivity to the mainland, the need for cold storage infrastructure, ice plants, chilled fish handling centres and improved post-harvest management systems.
Investors also emphasized opportunities in value-added processing such as sashimi-grade tuna, fish oil refining, ornamental fish brood banks and skilled workforce development. These areas, they said, are crucial for fully utilizing Lakshadweep’s strategic marine location.
Untapped Potential of Lakshadweep Fisheries
Minister of State Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel highlighted the gap between Lakshadweep’s current fish production of around 14,000 tonnes and its estimated potential of nearly one lakh tonnes. He stressed that traditional pole-and-line and handline fishing methods used in the islands are globally recognized for sustainability and quality.
With proper branding, certification and modern value-chain development, Lakshadweep’s premium tuna can access high-end international markets, he said, urging exporters to explore new destinations and leverage existing government welfare schemes.
New Frontiers: Seaweed and Ornamental Fisheries
Minister of State Shri George Kurian drew attention to emerging sectors such as seaweed farming and ornamental fisheries. He noted that Lakshadweep’s lagoons offer ideal conditions for seaweed cultivation, while ornamental fish enterprises can tap into the global aquarium trade through hatchery development.
These diversified activities, he said, can generate high returns, create local employment and support India’s broader Blue Economy goals.
Policy Support and Ease of Doing Business
Administrator Shri Praful Patel reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the Blue Revolution. He encouraged investors to share policy suggestions as Lakshadweep prepares to frame its first comprehensive fishing policy.
Officials highlighted upcoming initiatives such as the development of Minicoy airport, modernization of fishing vessels, single-window clearance systems and strengthened cooperatives to improve the ease of doing business.