India has invested ₹39,272 crore in the fisheries sector through various government schemes and programmes since 2015, as part of efforts to transform the industry into a technology-driven and value-oriented sector.
With a coastline of approximately 11,099 km and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of nearly 24 lakh square kilometres, India has an estimated marine fisheries potential of 58.6 lakh metric tonnes. The sector supports the livelihoods of nearly 50 lakh fishers and plays a significant role in ensuring food security, nutrition, employment and income generation.
India is also among the world’s leading fisheries and aquaculture producers. Seafood exports reached approximately ₹73,890 crore during the financial year 2025–26, highlighting the sector’s growing contribution to the national economy and global seafood trade.
The government is focusing on modernising the fisheries sector, moving beyond production-oriented activities towards technology adoption, value addition and improved economic opportunities for those dependent on the industry.
