Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission to Boost Blue Economy, Fisher Livelihoods

Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission to Boost Blue Economy, Fisher Livelihoods

CNB WORLD TIMES

Bhubaneswar, July 8: Odisha is set to take a major step towards becoming a leading deep-sea fishing and marine export hub as the Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission (2026–2036) will be launched by the Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, in Bhubaneswar on July 9.

The flagship initiative aims to unlock Odisha's offshore and deep-sea fisheries potential through modern fishing infrastructure, scientific fisheries management, improved value chains, and stronger market linkages. The mission is expected to increase marine fish production, create employment, enhance the incomes of fishing communities, and promote sustainable growth of the state's marine fisheries sector.

During the event, the Vice President will also launch the Letter of Authorisation (LoA) for Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the High Seas. The digital, transparent and vessel-specific authorisation system will enable eligible Indian-flagged fishing vessels to undertake regulated deep-sea fishing operations while ensuring compliance with global sustainability standards.

The programme, organised by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, will witness the participation of senior Union and Odisha government leaders, fisheries cooperatives, Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs), fishing vessel owners, and around 1,000 fishers, including women fishers.

The Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission is expected to strengthen the state's Blue Economy by promoting responsible marine resource utilisation, expanding seafood exports, supporting fisheries cooperatives, and improving livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.