8.1. Challenges Faced by the Fisheries Sector

♤ Inland fish production has declined due to proliferation of water control structure, loss of habitat and indiscriminate fishing.

♤ Marine fishing has declined due to depleting resources, energy crisis and resultant high cost of fishing.

♤ Low investment in the sector coupled with limited capabilities of fishermen and fish farmers.

♤ Inadequate supply of seed, feed and genetic resources.

♤ Slow development and adoption of new and improved farming technologies.

♤ India is yet to realise the potential of deep-sea fishing.

♤ Inadequate cold chain, market, trade and safety.

♤ Environmental integrity and a vicious circle of low productivity.

♤ The sector is also experiencing loss of biodiversity on account of adverse climate change

♤ Security of fishermen especially along the maritime boundaries with Sri Lanka and Pakistan remains a concern.

♤ Lack of a reliable database relating to aquatic and fisheries resources.

♤ Water pollution; unscientific management of aquaculture and contamination of indigenous germplasm resources.