5th World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress

Why in the News?
The 5th World Small-Scale Fisheries Congress was held from 27–30 April 2026 in Hua Hin, bringing global attention to the importance of small-scale fisheries (SSF) and India’s participation in the sector.

About Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF)
Small-scale fisheries form the backbone of global capture fisheries, employing nearly 90% of the world’s fishers and contributing about 40% of total fish catch. They play a crucial role in food security, nutrition, poverty reduction, and gender equity, especially through women’s involvement in post-harvest activities.

Key Features of SSF
SSF are typically multi-species, multi-gear, and family-based operations, particularly in Asia. They support millions of livelihoods in coastal and inland regions and are deeply integrated with local economies and cultures.

India’s Scenario
India is a major global player in fisheries:

• Second-largest fish producer globally (about 8% share).
• Second in aquaculture production.
• Leader in shrimp production and exports.
• Around 4 million marine fishers operate mainly within territorial waters (up to 12 nautical miles).

The sector is governed primarily by State Marine Fisheries Regulation Acts and supported by schemes like Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, along with initiatives such as Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and cooperatives.

Recent Policy Support
India has significantly increased investments in fisheries through schemes like Blue Revolution, Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), PMMSY, and PMMKSSY, with cumulative investments exceeding ₹39,000 crore since 2015.

Significance
SSF are vital for inclusive growth, sustainable livelihoods, and nutritional security. They also contribute to coastal resilience and support traditional knowledge systems, aligning with global sustainability goals.