Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in High Seas (Geography)

Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in High Seas (Geography)

Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in High Seas (Geography)Why In News:A national programme on Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in High Seas was launched along with the issue of Letters of Authorisation (LoAs) for deep-sea fishing.Source: PIB Analysis, 09 July 2026 - 'Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in High Seas: A New Chapter in India's Maritime Journey'Key HighlightsNational programme launched at Bhubaneswar; Letters of Authorisation (LoAs) issued for sustainable fishing in India's EEZ and the high seas.Priority given to cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) and Indian fishermen.India's Marine StrengthCoastline of over 11,000 km; EEZ spanning 24 lakh sq km.India is the 2nd largest fish producer in the world, with an 8% share of global fish production.Seafood exports worth over Rs 73,000 crore in the last financial year.FeaturesLetter of Authorization (LoA): A compulsory, vessel-specific and non-transferable permit issued to Indian-flagged fishing vessels for high seas operations, valid for a period of three years.Regulatory Framework: Mandated under the Guidelines for Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the High Seas by Indian-Flagged Fishing Vessels, 2025.Digital Integration: Linked with the ReALCraft (Registration and Licensing of Fishing Craft) portal to ensure transparency, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.Priority Allocation: Preference is accorded to fisheries cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs), and traditional Indian fishermen.Sustainable Fishing Practices: Promotes adherence to conservation norms set by Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), including catch limits and bycatch reduction.Key Facts for PrelimsExclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): under UNCLOS, a coastal state has sovereign rights over resources up to 200 nautical miles from its baseline.High seas fishing lies beyond national EEZs and is governed by international instruments, including the UN Fish Stocks Agreement.Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): India's flagship fisheries scheme, launched in 2020, aimed at modernising the sector and boosting fisheries export.