New Delhi: The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has announced the notification of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a designated Tuna Cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This strategic move aims to harness the region’s untapped marine resources, particularly its rich Tuna fisheries, for boosting the sector’s economic growth and global competitiveness.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with a vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of approximately 6.0 lakh square kilometers, are home to abundant marine life, including high-value Tuna species. These resources are largely under-exploited, with an estimated 60,000 metric tons of Tuna and similar species available. The islands’ proximity to Southeast Asian markets further enhances their potential for both sea and air trade, making the region an ideal hub for fisheries development.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, officials noted that the pristine waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands provide the perfect environment for sustainable fishing practices. With effective administrative measures in place, the region is poised to transform its marine resources into a cornerstone of economic growth. The establishment of the Tuna Cluster is expected to generate economies of scale, boosting income levels and accelerating the organized development of the fisheries sector nationwide.
The PMMSY initiative will focus on critical investments to support this growth, including organizing investor meetings to foster partnerships with tuna-fishing nations. Additionally, training and capacity-building programs, along with exposure visits for stakeholders, will be implemented to ensure the development of a skilled workforce.
Key infrastructure developments will also be prioritized, including the creation of facilities for fish landing, processing, and export connectivity. These enhancements are vital for streamlining operations and bolstering India’s presence in the global fisheries market.
The notification of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a Tuna Cluster is expected to play a transformative role in the growth of India’s fisheries sector, offering new opportunities for sustainable development, trade, and employment in the region.