Lakshadweep Set for Fisheries-Led Growth as VC Launches ‘Mission Rangeen Machhli 2031’

National News (31 August 2026): Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Monday attended a Fisheries Outreach Programme in Agatti, Lakshadweep, where he unveiled the “Mission Rangeen Machhli 2031” Strategic Action Plan aimed at promoting and strengthening ornamental fisheries in the Union Territory.

During the programme, the Vice President also distributed various government benefits and assistance to beneficiaries associated with the fisheries sector, underlining the Centre’s focus on taking welfare schemes and development initiatives directly to fishing communities.

Addressing the gathering, Radhakrishnan described the event as a significant milestone for Lakshadweep as well as for India’s ongoing Blue Revolution. He said the country’s fisheries and aquaculture sector has emerged as an important growth area under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, with the government working to expand opportunities linked to the country’s vast marine resources.

Referring to the blue chakra in the national flag, the Vice President said it symbolises India’s immense potential in the ocean economy. He emphasised that the country’s maritime resources can play a crucial role in strengthening livelihoods, generating employment and contributing to the broader objective of building a developed India.

Over ₹62 crore fisheries projects approved for Lakshadweep

Radhakrishnan said the government is adopting a more proactive approach to welfare delivery by taking schemes and assistance to fishing communities instead of expecting beneficiaries to approach government offices.

He highlighted that fisheries development projects worth more than ₹62 crore have been approved for Lakshadweep under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The initiatives are expected to support fisheries infrastructure, improve livelihood opportunities and strengthen the island territory’s fisheries ecosystem.

Lakshadweep has over one lakh tonnes of fisheries potential

Highlighting the enormous maritime resources available around the islands, the Vice President said Lakshadweep has an estimated fisheries potential of more than one lakh tonnes. Of this, nearly 94,000 tonnes comprise tuna and tuna-like species, presenting significant opportunities for sustainable fishing and value-added activities.

He stressed that the available resources must be developed through scientific methods while maintaining ecological balance and ensuring that the benefits reach local communities.

The Vice President also pointed to India’s expanding position in international seafood markets. He said the country’s seafood exports exceeded ₹73,000 crore during the last financial year, with Indian seafood reaching more than 120 countries.

According to him, greater utilisation of opportunities in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas could further enhance the country’s fisheries sector and strengthen India’s presence in the global seafood market.

Focus on sustainable and responsible fishing

Radhakrishnan called for greater emphasis on responsible fishing practices and conservation of marine resources. He also stressed the need for strict measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which poses a threat to marine ecosystems and the long-term sustainability of fisheries.

Encouraging young people to explore fisheries as a modern career option, he said the sector should no longer be viewed merely as a traditional or inherited occupation. Instead, he urged the younger generation to look at fisheries through the lens of science, technology, innovation and global market opportunities.

Drawing a comparison with India’s Green Revolution and White Revolution, the Vice President said the Blue Revolution could have an equally transformative impact on the lives of fishing communities.

He called upon governments, fishing communities, entrepreneurs, scientists and other stakeholders to work collectively towards developing India’s Blue Economy and making it a major pillar of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

The programme was attended by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Lakshadweep Administrator Praful K. Patel, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, Department of Fisheries Secretary Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, and other senior officials and stakeholders.

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