The Lakshadweep archipelago, characterized by unique geographical features and scattered islands have extensive fishery resources. With a vast lagoon covering 4,200 square kilometers, territorial waters spanning 20,000 square kilometers, an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 400,000 square kilometers, and a coastal line of approximately 132 kilometers, the region offers significant potential for fishery development. Tuna is the primary fishery resource in these islands.
Department of Fisheries established during 1959. Fishing activities are primarily concentrated in all the islands of Lakshadweep and employs a unique fishing method known as “Pole and Line, which exclusively targets tuna. This method is found only in Lakshadweep within the Indian continent. Over the years, fish production has steadily increased from a modest 500 tonnes in the 1950s to 16891 metric tonnes in 2024-25. To further enhance fish production and create employment opportunities, the Department of Fisheries has implemented a successful program involving anchored Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) in selective territorial waters. These devices not only boost fish production but also contribute to fuel savings, reduced scouting time, and enhanced safety during fishing operations.
To enhance fish catch and exports, innovative measures have been implemented, including the deployment of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs). These FADs attract pelagic fish like tuna, improving catch efficiency. Around 32 fish collection vessels from other states have been granted permission to collect fish directly from local fishermen, facilitating better prices and market access. Infrastructure development has also been prioritized with the establishment of eight ice plants (total capacity 60 MT), three cold storages (15 MT), and the distribution of 300 insulated ice boxes (each 150 litres) to improve post-harvest handling and preservation
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), 81 fisheries-related projects have been launched in Lakshadweep- 24 completed and 57 ongoing-targeting sustainable and responsible development. These include cold storage units, processing infrastructure, and technological upgrades. The UT Administration has also received approval to procure 10 deep-sea fishing vessels and install an additional 18 FADs under PMMSY Two islands, Chetlat and Minicoy, have been selected under the Climate Resilient Coastal Fishing Village Scheme. Further, Lakshadweep has been chosen for a Seaweed Cluster Project, with in-principle approval granted for a seaweed hatchery and seed bank. The Department is actively supporting seaweed farming through community-led demonstration projects involving 10 SHGs across nine inhabited islands. Seed material from Tamil Nadu has been supplied, and private sector partnerships are being developed to bring in new technologies and market linkages.
Efforts to revive processing capabilities have led to the outsourcing of the Tuna Canning Factory at Minicoy to experienced private entrepreneurs to attract capital and advanced technologies. A slurry/flake ice machine pilot project is underway to test new preservation techniques. Financial inclusion is being promoted through the issuance of 1,607 Kisan Credit Cards amounting to 16.5 crore, supporting micro-enterprises like fish pickle and fish powder production. In terms of institutional capacity, seven new fisheries cooperatives have been established, adding to the existing three, ensuring all inhabited islands are now represented by registered cooperatives.
Satellite-based and ocean observation technologies are playing an increasing role in decision-making and operations. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories derived from satellite data on sea surface temperature and chlorophyll concentration. These advisories, disseminated via SMS, mobile apps, and display boards, help fishermen locate fish-rich areas, reduce fuel consumption, and improve catch per effort. INCOIS also provides ocean state forecasts using data from wave rider buoys that monitor real-time sea conditions such as wave height, wind speed, and currents-vital for ensuring safety and operational planning in the volatile marine environment around Lakshadweep. Furthermore, the Ministry of Fisheries’ Vessel Communication and Support System project using satellite transponders enables real-time tracking of fishing vessels, enhancing safety, ensuring compliance with fishing regulations, and supporting search and rescue operations.
Together, these integrated efforts-ranging from grassroots capacity building and infrastructure development to technological modernization and policy reform-are transforming Lakshadweep’s fisheries into a resilient, sustainable, and economically productive sector aligned with the broader objectives of a blue economy.