Gujarat: Fishing | Gujarat State PSC (GPSC) Preparation: All subjects - GPSC (Gujarat) PDF Download

Introduction

• Gujarat holds the distinction of possessing the longest coastline in India, stretching over 1600 kilometers. This extensive coastal stretch also includes the widest continental shelf area among all maritime states in the country. The coastline is characterized by various geographical features such as bays, inlets, estuaries, and marshy lands.
• This geographical setup provides abundant opportunities for coastal aquaculture in Gujarat, making it a favorable location for marine-based activities and industries.

Significance of Gujarat's Coastal Features

• The extensive coastline of Gujarat provides a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of marine life. This biodiversity is essential for sustaining various fishing and aquaculture activities in the region.
• Gujarat's coastal areas are prime locations for the development of fishing harbors, aquaculture farms, and marine research institutions, contributing significantly to the state's economy and employment opportunities.

Challenges and Conservation Efforts

• The rapid industrialization and urbanization along the Gujarat coast pose challenges to the marine ecosystem, including pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing, which can impact the sustainability of marine resources.
• To address these challenges, conservation efforts such as marine protected areas, sustainable fishing practices, and community engagement programs are crucial for preserving the marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term viability of coastal activities.

Overview of Fishing Industry in Gujarat

• The fishing grounds in Gujarat span from Lakhpat in Kachchh district to Umargaon in Valsad district, offering a diverse range of commercial fish species such as Pomfret, Jewfish, Bombay duck, Shrimp, Lobster, Squid, Cuttlefish, Silver bar, Hilsa, Shark, Catfish, and Mullets.
• The Gulf of Kachchh provides favorable conditions for the proliferation of Oysters, Shellfish, and Seaweed, enhancing the biodiversity of the region.
• During 2013-14, Gujarat witnessed a total fish production of 7.93 lakh tonnes, with marine fish accounting for 6.95 lakh tonnes and inland fisheries contributing 0.98 lakh tonnes, amounting to Rs. 5295.70 crores.

Economic Impact of Fishing Industry

• The fishing sector significantly contributes to the economy of Gujarat, with substantial revenue generated from the production and sale of marine and inland fish varieties.
• For instance, the high demand for Pomfret and Bombay duck in local and international markets boosts income opportunities for fishermen and traders.

Overview of Fisheries in a Maritime State

• Export Statistics: During the period of April 2016 to January 2017, the export of fish and fish products in a maritime state amounted to 224,774 tonnes, valued at Rs. 2,478.11 crores. By the end of the fiscal year 2016-17, the state earned Rs. 2,929.61 crores through the export of 282,057 tonnes of fish and fish products.
• Fishing Boats Registration: In 2016-17, there were a total of 36,770 registered fishing boats in the state, comprising 24,612 mechanized boats and 12,158 non-mechanized boats. By December 2017, the number increased to 39,929 boats, with 24,773 being mechanized and 12,156 non-mechanized.
• Fishing Villages and Population: The state harbors 1,058 fishing villages categorized as Marine (260), Inland (716), and Estuarine (82). These villages accommodate approximately 559,000 fishermen, with 218,000 actively engaged in fishing, fish marketing, and boat/net maintenance.
• Local Consumption: Over the years, local fish consumption in the state has surged from 4-7% in the early 1960s to around 60% presently. The per capita fish consumption has doubled post the nineties, reaching 10.58 kg per year by 1999-2000.

Marine Fish Production in Gujarat

• Gujarat, with approximately 20% of India's coastline spanning 1600 km, 33% of the continental shelf area covering 1,64,000 sq. km, and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) exceeding 2,00,000 sq. km, holds the second position among all maritime states in India for marine fish production.
• There are 263 marine fishing villages and 217 marine fish landing centers in Gujarat, with Junagadh district hosting the highest number of 72 villages. Despite the predominantly vegetarian population in Gujarat, per capita fish consumption surged from 4.53 kg in 1990-91 to 11.58 kg in 2002-03. This growth in Gujarat's fisheries sector has significantly enhanced the per capita availability of protein-rich food.
• In 2008, the primary contributors to Gujarat's marine fishery were pelagic finfishes at 39%, demersal resources at 31%, crustaceans at 22%, and cephalopods at 8%.

Significance of Marine Fish Production in Gujarat

• Food Security: The development of fisheries in Gujarat has played a crucial role in enhancing the availability of protein-rich food, contributing to improved food security.
• Economic Impact: The thriving marine fish production industry in Gujarat has not only boosted local economies but has also created employment opportunities in fishing villages and fish landing centers.
• Cultural Impact: Despite being predominantly vegetarian, the rising consumption of fish signifies a shift in dietary habits, reflecting changing cultural preferences and dietary choices in Gujarat.
• Resource Utilization: Gujarat's utilization of its extensive coastline and marine resources demonstrates effective resource management strategies that benefit both the economy and the population.

Marine Fish Production in Gujarat

• In 2011, Gujarat witnessed a significant upsurge in marine fish production, reaching 6.27 lakh tonnes, marking a 19% increase from the prior year. Among the 66 different species/groups/categories landed, the notable contributors were non-penaeid prawns (17%), ribbonfishes (13%), croakers (9.7%), molluscs (primarily cephalopods) at 8.2%, and Bombayduck at 7.8%.
• Gujarat's marine fish trade has seen advancements, including the processing and export of airbladders from species like ghol, koth, eel, and catfish in Okha. Additionally, the export of jellyfish from Jakhau has significantly boosted foreign exchange earnings.

Scenario of Inland Fish Production in Gujarat

• Inland fish production in Gujarat presents a unique landscape, complementing the marine sector. The state's diverse inland water bodies support a range of fish species, contributing significantly to the overall fish production.

Overview of Inland Fish Production in Gujarat

Gujarat's notable position in marine fish production juxtaposed with its lower rank in inland fish production during 2013-14 highlights a dynamic shift in the state's fishing landscape. Traditionally utilized for livestock and domestic needs, village ponds in south and central Gujarat have gradually transitioned to aquaculture, facilitated by collaborations between FFDA and other fisheries institutions. These ponds, ranging from 0.5 ha to 15 ha, retain water accessibility until March's conclusion.

Evolution of Inland Fish Farming:

• Historically, Gujarat excelled in marine fish production but lagged in inland fish output, a scenario that has transformed over recent decades.
• Collaborative efforts between FFDA and fisheries institutes have stimulated growth in inland fish production, particularly in village ponds across south and central Gujarat.
• Pond sizes varying from 0.5 ha to 15 ha now serve as hubs for fish cultivation, with water availability extending until March.

Leasing Dynamics and Economic Impact:

• The majority of these ponds rely on canal irrigation, offering a six-month window for fish harvesting when seeded with fingerlings.
• Escalating intensity in fish farming has led to a proportional increase in lease rates, surpassing initial expectations significantly.
• Fish contractors, primarily from fishing communities, leverage these ponds as a means to diversify their income streams.
• Over the past two decades, changes in leasing policies have shifted from protective to competitive, resulting in higher lease rates.
• In certain instances, these lease amounts constitute over 90% of the total budget for village panchayats, highlighting their economic significance.
• The competitive leasing environment has attracted astute entrepreneurs, some of whom cultivate a benevolent or authoritative image to assert their fishing rights and deter poaching activities.

Issues Affecting Freshwater Aquaculture in Gujarat

Challenges in Gujarat's Freshwater Aquaculture Sector:

• Gujarat faces low production in its inland aquaculture sector due to various reasons.
• Most districts in Gujarat experience low rainfall, leading to seasonal ponds and reservoirs that hinder long-term aquaculture development.
• Inadequate fish seed stocking in ponds and reservoirs results in underutilization of potential resources.
• Poaching activities in large reservoirs significantly contribute to the low fish production in the region.
• Religious taboos in certain areas prevent or limit fish harvesting, further impacting aquaculture output.
• Inadequate adoption of supplementary feeding practices is another factor affecting production levels.
• Lack of proper training and low implementation of scientific culture practices also play a role in the suboptimal inland water production.

Enhancing Inland Fish Production in Gujarat

• The Current Scenario: In Gujarat, the major inland catch comes from districts like Surat, Jamnagar, Bharuch, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Valsad. Freshwater prawns are predominantly sourced from Surendranagar, followed by Sabarkantha, Kheda, Ahmedabad, Valsad, and Vadodara.
• Areas for Improvement: To boost inland fish production, it is essential to expand fry grow-out areas for culture practices in each district, maximizing the available potential. Introducing fast-growing species can significantly enhance production levels.
• Utilizing Seasonal Water Bodies: Stocking fingerlings in seasonal water tanks and reservoirs of Saurashtra and North Gujarat can be a beneficial practice to increase fish populations.
• Enhancing Reservoir Management: Scientific management of reservoirs, including appropriate stocking and controlled fishing, is crucial to improve overall production. Implementing polyculture of giant freshwater prawn and fish can also be explored to amplify output.
• Focus on Sardar Sarovar Project: The fisheries development within the Sardar Sarovar Project area should be meticulously planned to maximize fish production from both the reservoir and its command areas.

Marine Fishery Development in Gujarat

• Marine Fishery Potential: Marine fishing in Gujarat plays a crucial role in the region's economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment opportunities, poverty alleviation, and foreign exchange earnings. The annual marine fishery potential in Gujarat is estimated at approximately 0.57 million metric tonnes, which accounts for around 17% of the total potential up to a depth of 300 meters off the Gujarat coast. This potential is substantial and has a direct impact on the livelihoods of many individuals in the region.
• Deep Sea Demersal Stocks: The deep sea demersal stocks in Gujarat, including species like threadfin bream, bull's eye, skates, catfishes, ribbonfishes, and Indian drift fish, play a vital role in sustaining the marine fishery sector. These species contribute significantly to the ecosystem and support the local fishing industry. For example, threadfin bream and ribbonfishes are commonly targeted by local fishermen due to their high demand and economic value.
• Midwater Stocks: Midwater stocks, such as horse mackerel, shads, ribbonfishes, little tuna, squids, and myctophids, are also essential for maintaining a healthy fishery off the coast of Gujarat. These species are integral to the marine ecosystem and are key targets for commercial fishing activities. For instance, horse mackerel and squids are important catches for fishermen and are exported to various markets for consumption.
• Contribution to Fish Production: The marine sector in Gujarat makes a substantial contribution to the overall fish production in the state, accounting for over 90% of the total catch. This highlights the significance of marine fishing in Gujarat's economy and emphasizes the reliance of local communities on marine resources for sustenance and economic well-being.

Overview of Gujarat's Fish Production

• Gujarat has experienced fluctuations in its contribution to total fish production both in terms of volume and value over the last decade. This decline can be attributed to the diminishing fish catch and a decrease in catch quality.
• Within the marine sector, it has been reported that 35% of the catch comprises low-value miscellaneous fish, affecting the overall value of the catch.

Main Districts Contributing to Marine Landings:

• Junagadh District
• Valsad District
• Jamnagar District
• Amreli District
• Kutch District
• Bhavnagar District
• Rajkot District
• Surat District
• Bharuch District
• Kheda District

Unique Features of the Saurashtra Coast:

• The Saurashtra coast, located between the Gulf of Kutch and Gulf of Cambay, boasts distinct oceanographic characteristics. This region is rich in a diverse array of highly sought-after table fishes.

Maximizing Production from State Resources

In light of the current circumstances, it is imperative to optimize production from the abundant resources within the State in a thoughtful and well-managed manner to safeguard these resources and ensure sustainable productivity for future generations.
This goal can be accomplished by concentrating on research and commercial endeavors such as:

Focused Strategies for Resource Utilization

• Fleet-size reduction to ensure sustainable fishing practices and resource conservation.
• Promotion of sustainable fishing activities through participatory rural development programs to involve local communities in resource management.
• Promotion of coastal mariculture and open sea farming for diversifying seafood production and reducing pressure on wild stocks.
• Promotion of the exploitation and utilization of non-conventional resources like seaweeds and gastropods to broaden the scope of marine resource utilization.
• Promotion of the marine aquarium industry to encourage responsible trade practices and conservation efforts.
• Conservation of resources through measures such as mesh size regulation to protect juvenile marine life.
• Regulation of bottom trawling to prevent habitat destruction and reduce bycatch.
• Regulation of fishing activities in identified breeding/nursery grounds to ensure the replenishment of fish populations.
• Regulation of fishery targeting breeding adults and young juveniles to maintain healthy population dynamics.
• Regulation of fishery of endangered/threatened species to aid in their recovery and preservation.
• Promotion of sea ranching programs for commercially important and cultivable species like shrimps and lobsters to reduce pressure on wild stocks.

Suggestions for the Development of Mariculture

Mariculture involves the cultivation of marine organisms for food and other products, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fishing practices.
Key suggestions for the development of mariculture include:

• Suitable Species Selection: Choosing species that are well-suited to the local environment and market demands is crucial for the success of mariculture projects.
• Infrastructure Development: Building appropriate infrastructure such as floating cages, ponds, or tanks depending on the species being cultivated is essential for efficient mariculture operations.
• Water Quality Management: Maintaining optimal water quality parameters through regular monitoring and management practices is vital for the health and growth of mariculture species.
• Disease Prevention and Management: Implementing biosecurity measures and disease management protocols can help prevent and control outbreaks that can impact mariculture production.

Development of Mariculture Sites

• Coastal and Island Systems: It is crucial to develop mariculture sites along the coasts and island systems. By enabling a leasing policy, this sector can be enhanced significantly.
• Strengthening the Fishery Sector in Kutch Region: The fishery sector in the Kutch region is underdeveloped. Strengthening it involves providing new mechanized units and shore-based infrastructure facilities to better utilize the available resources.
• Promoting Marketing Networks: Establishing a strong marketing network is essential for the growth of the sector. This facilitates better reach and distribution of products, benefiting both producers and consumers.
• Implementing Innovative Mariculture Techniques: Implementing large-scale cage culture in open seas and developing various recirculatory and raceway systems for land-based mariculture can revolutionize the industry.
• Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Technology Transfer: Fostering entrepreneurship for large-scale production of high-value marine ornamental species can open up new opportunities. Emphasizing technology transfer ensures the industry stays updated and efficient.

Issues in Deep Sea Fishing Sector of Gujarat

• Increasing Fleet Size and Fishing Efforts: The number and size of fishing fleets are growing, leading to overfishing and potential depletion of marine resources.
• Non-implementation of Mesh Size Regulation: Regulations regarding mesh sizes in trawl nets and dol nets are not being effectively enforced, which can result in the capture of undersized fish and juveniles.
• Operation of Outboard Gillnetters: The use of outboard gillnetters, especially during monsoon seasons, can contribute to unsustainable fishing practices and harm marine ecosystems.
• Unregulated Capture of Mega-Species: Large, long-lived marine species are being captured in an unsustainable manner, affecting the balance of the marine ecosystem.
• Bycatch in Trawls: Trawling practices lead to the unintentional capture of non-target species, including juveniles and low-value fish, impacting biodiversity.
• Stock Depletion: Several fish stocks are in decline due to overfishing and unsustainable practices, posing a threat to biodiversity and food security.
• Climate Change Impact: The effects of climate change on the marine environment are exacerbating existing issues, affecting fish populations and habitats.
• Infrastructure and Awareness: Inadequate on-board handling, poor quality control, and marketing infrastructure, coupled with a lack of awareness among fisher communities, hinder sustainable fishing practices.
• Extension Services and Global Pressures: Insufficient extension services, coupled with global trade pressures, contribute to the challenges faced by the fishing sector in Gujarat.
• Identity Card Implementation: Issuing identity cards to legitimate fisherfolk can enhance safety measures and curb illegal cross-border activities in the fishing industry.

Constraints in Demand and Awareness

• Limited Consumer Awareness: Lack of awareness among consumers about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of responsible seafood consumption.
• Market Demand Challenges: Shifting market demands and preferences impacting the fishing sector's ability to meet consumer needs.
• Educational and Outreach Deficiencies: Inadequate educational programs and outreach initiatives to promote sustainable fishing practices and raise awareness among stakeholders.
• Resource Utilization: Inefficient utilization of fishery resources due to a lack of awareness and understanding of sustainable fishing methods.

Challenges and Solutions in Enhancing Fisheries Development in Gujarat

• Although Gujarat has a strong tradition of vegetarianism, the fishing industry holds significant potential for improving the livelihoods of rural communities, contributing to food security, and enhancing nutrition. 
• In certain Adivasi regions of Gujarat, where access to green vegetables is limited, fish constitutes a primary dietary staple. However, there are several factors leading to low demand for fish, including social and ethical beliefs, lack of awareness about the nutritional benefits of fish, insufficient fishery outlets, and a scarcity of processed fish products.

Challenges in Fisheries Development

• Social and ethical beliefs: Deep-rooted cultural norms and beliefs in vegetarianism hinder the acceptance of fish as a dietary option.
• Lack of awareness: Many individuals are unaware of the nutritional advantages offered by fish meat, leading to underappreciation of its benefits.
• Insufficient fishery outlets: Limited availability of fish markets and outlets restricts access to fresh fish products.
• Scarcity of processed fish products: The absence of a variety of processed fish items limits consumer choices and convenience.

Solutions to Boost Fisheries Development

• Awareness campaigns: Conducting educational initiatives to highlight the nutritional value of fish and promote its consumption.
• Fish festivals: Organizing regular fish festivals to celebrate the diversity of fish dishes and raise public interest in fish-based cuisine.
• Specialized fish establishments: Establishing dedicated fish hotels and restaurants to cater to diverse preferences and enhance the culinary experience.
• Moving kitchen vans/buses: Introducing mobile units exclusively offering processed fish food to increase accessibility and convenience for consumers.

Overview of Fishery Resources in Gujarat State

• Despite Gujarat's abundant marine and inland resources, the majority of fish and shellfish production primarily comes from marine sources.
• Gujarat ranks first in marine resources in India, boasting a total coastline of 1600 km with a continental shelf of 1,64,000 sq. km and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2,00,000 sq. km, second only to another maritime state.
• However, the state's inland water resources cover 4.26 lakh hectares, placing it seventh among maritime states in the country.
• In 2016-17, Gujarat led in marine fish production with 696,000 tons, while its inland fish production ranked 15th, contributing a mere 98,000 tons, just 1.59% of the country's inland production.
• Between 2010 and 2014, marine fish production plateaued, while many inland water bodies remained underutilized.

Challenges and Recommendations for Enhancing Fish Production

• Gujarat needs to tap into its underutilized inland water resources to boost overall fish production and support the marginalized fish farming community.
• Encouraging sustainable fishing practices can help in maximizing the potential of both marine and inland resources.
• Investing in modern aquaculture techniques and infrastructure can lead to increased production and economic growth.
• Providing training and financial support to fishermen for diversifying their catch can improve their livelihoods and reduce dependency on marine resources.