According to the state's fisheries department, Maharashtra's fish output has decreased from 6.63 lakh metric tonnes in 2016–17 to 5.9 lakh metric tonnes in 2022–23. Despite this, Maharashtra exported over 2.42 lakh metric tonnes of fish in 2022–23. These exports were valued at INR 6,212 crore.
Maharashtra was the third-largest fish producer in India 10 years ago. But now it ranks fifth. The state's decline is more severe in inland fish production. It has fallen from seventh to 17th place. In marine production, it has dropped from third to sixth place.
During this period, states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala saw significant increases in fish production. Fisheries Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar cited the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors as reasons for the decline.
In response, the Maharashtra government will launch a fishing policy for the first time. A team led by former Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik has been formed to create this policy. The committee met for the first time last week and has six months to present its report.
The fisheries department has proposed granting fish farms agricultural status. This would allow fish farms to receive incentives similar to those given to farmers, such as subsidies, waived electricity costs, and soft loans.
Currently, the industry only receives a diesel subsidy for fishing boats. The department has revised its plans to include these new incentives.
Officials in the fisheries department noted that a lack of infrastructure and facilities has hindered Maharashtra's fish output. Andhra Pradesh's transformation of paddy fields into fish farms has boosted its inland fishing. However, Maharashtra has not fully utilised its potential due to inadequate infrastructure and manpower.
Reports suggest that the recent coastal cyclones, such as Nisarg and Taukte, had a severe impact on production. Additionally, underreporting of production has been an issue. The committee's report is due in six months and will outline the steps needed to achieve these goals.
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