The Government of India has announced plans to secure a global ecolabelling certification for Lakshadweep’s traditional tuna fisheries, aiming to boost sustainability, traceability, and market value.
Union Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) said that certification and traceability will be the next big reforms in India’s fisheries sector.
Promoting Traditional & Sustainable Fishing Methods
The pole-and-line and hand-line tuna fisheries of Lakshadweep will be certified due to their low environmental impact and positive social benefits.
According to Singh, this move will:
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Ensure eco-certified tuna products reach premium global markets
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Provide higher income for artisanal fishers in Lakshadweep
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Strengthen India’s presence in the sustainable seafood market
He added that ecolabelling will increase international demand and create better livelihood opportunities for island communities.
Seaweed & Ornamental Fisheries: New Growth Areas
The Union minister highlighted the huge potential of seaweed farming and ornamental fisheries in Lakshadweep. These sectors can:
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Generate women-led employment
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Enhance community-based income
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Position Lakshadweep as a global hub for seaweed farming
Lakshadweep Administrator Praful Patel revealed that the islands have 4,000 sq m of lagoon space, ideal for large-scale seaweed cultivation.
Focus on Deep-Sea Fishing & Modernization
The Centre is also preparing legal frameworks to support sustainable deep-sea fishing in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the High Seas, in collaboration with coastal states and Union Territories.
Union Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi reviewed modernization at Thoppumpady harbour, stressing that modern infrastructure and post-harvest technology will:
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Reduce waste through cold chains & packaging
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Improve catch quality & export value
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Boost fisher incomes with value-added seafood products
He directed port authorities to speed up modernization projects within strict timelines.
Key Stakeholders
The meeting was attended by representatives from:
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NITI Aayog
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Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)
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Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
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NABARD
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National Fisheries Development Board
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Fishery Survey of India
Union Minister of State George Kurian and Fisheries Secretary Abhilaksh Likhi also addressed the gathering.
Conclusion
The government’s global ecolabelling initiative for Lakshadweep tuna fisheries marks a major step toward sustainable fishing, market expansion, and fisher welfare. With strong focus on eco-friendly practices, seaweed cultivation, and deep-sea resources, Lakshadweep is set to become a sustainability model in global fisheries.
