Mangaluru – In a landmark move to boost sustainable fisheries and marine livelihoods, the Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, will launch the 5th National Marine Fisheries Census this November, covering 1.2 million fisher households across India’s coastline.
The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), the nodal agency for mainland India, announced that this extensive 45-day data drive will map socio-economic profiles, livelihood conditions, and infrastructure across all coastal States and Union Territories. The Fishery Survey of India (FSI) will oversee census operations in UTs and island territories.
In a virtual review meeting chaired by Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, stakeholders from central and state agencies stressed the need for seamless coordination to ensure the success of the exercise. State Fisheries Departments pledged full cooperation.
The census will document demographics, types of fishing vessels, gears, harbours, landing centres, processing units, and cold storages. Local youth from fishing villages will serve as enumerators, supported by district, state, and regional coordinators.
MFC 2025 marks a technological leap with the use of mobile apps, geo-tagging, and real-time validation, improving speed and accuracy.
“This is a turning point for evidence-based marine governance and livelihood planning,” said Ms. Prasad.
CMFRI Director Dr. Grinson George highlighted that the census findings will shape policies on marine resource management, welfare schemes, and infrastructure, directly benefiting millions in the marine sector.
Read Also: