India Hosts 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum, Showcasing Innovation and Sustainability

New Delhi: Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, inaugurated the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) at Pusa Campus, New Delhi, marking a significant moment in the global fisheries and aquaculture sector. The event highlights India’s growing leadership in sustainable fisheries, cutting-edge aquaculture technologies, and digital solutions for the industry.

In his address, Rajiv Ranjan Singh reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to sustainable fisheries, emphasizing that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has become the world’s second-largest fish producer. He noted that the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has significantly contributed to this achievement. The Minister also highlighted the adoption of digital fisheries platforms, vessel monitoring systems, transponders, and emergency alert systems to ensure the safety and efficiency of fishers. Additionally, he spoke about the extension of the Kisan Credit Card scheme to fishers and fish farmers, along with new insurance schemes for the fisheries sector.

The Minister also inaugurated the 14AFAF Expo, a key attraction that brings together stakeholders from state fisheries departments, academia, research institutions, and industry leaders to showcase technological advancements in the sector.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, highlighted 75 new fisheries technologies and improved fish varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He stressed that ICAR is working towards sustainable and carbon-neutral fisheries to ensure long-term industry resilience.

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, emphasized the government’s transformative policies, major investments in fisheries infrastructure, and the critical role of startups in boosting India’s blue economy.

The forum brought together 1,000 participants from 24 countries, including renowned fisheries experts, policymakers, and industry leaders.

• ‘Padma Shri’ Dr. S. Ayyappan, former Secretary, DARE, and DG, ICAR, described 14AFAF as the “Mahakumbh” of fisheries researchers in Asia, underlining India’s leadership in fisheries research.
• Dr. Essam Yassin Mohammed, Director General, WorldFish, Malaysia, spoke about global innovations in fisheries and commended India for its transformation efforts in sustainable aquaculture.
• Prof. Neil Loneragan, President, Asian Fisheries Society, Kuala Lumpur, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in advancing global fisheries.
• Dr. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of 14AFAF, stated that the forum features over 20 lead presentations from global experts, aiming to shape the future of fisheries and aquaculture.

The session also saw the release of various publications and technologies by dignitaries, further strengthening India’s push for innovation in the fisheries sector.

Hosting the 14th AFAF after 15 years underscores India’s increasing role in global fisheries and aquaculture. With a rapidly expanding blue economy, progressive government policies, and scientific advancements, India is emerging as a key global player in sustainable fisheries.

The forum, organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with ICAR, the Department of Fisheries, and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore, serves as a vital platform for strengthening international partnerships and advancing sustainable aquaculture initiatives.