Mangaluru: A nationwide data collection drive involving 1.2 million fisher households across India’s coastal states and Union territories will begin this November, as part of the fifth National Marine Fisheries Census (MFC 2025). The census, covering socio-economic data and infrastructure mapping, will be conducted over 45 days, reaching every marine fishing household in the country.

The initiative is being funded and coordinated by the Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

In mainland India, the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) is the nodal agency for the census, while the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) will oversee data collection from Union territories, including island regions.

At a recent high-level review meeting chaired by Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, detailed plans were discussed. The State Fisheries Departments have pledged full support, including manpower assistance and finalisation of village lists.

MFC 2025 will mark a technological leap in data collection by using mobile-based apps, geo-tagging, and real-time validation tools, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the process. “The data will aid in informed decision-making for marine resource management, policy planning, and welfare schemes,” said Neetu Kumari Prasad.

Dr Grinson George, Director of CMFRI and National Coordinator for the census, emphasized that the collected data will directly influence livelihood planning and infrastructure development for millions dependent on marine fisheries.

Dr Sujitha Thomas, Principal Scientist and Head of CMFRI’s Mangaluru Regional Centre, confirmed that in Karnataka, the census will cover all three coastal districts, with preparations already underway.

The census will capture:

  • Demographics and livelihood data of marine fisher families

  • Details on fishing vessels, gears, landing centres, harbours, processing units, and cold storages

    • Importantly, local enumerators from the fishing communities will conduct the survey, guided by regional and state-level coordinators, ensuring grassroots involvement and accurate reporting.

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