India Launches Climate Resilient Fishermen Villages Initiative
The Indian government is taking decisive action to protect its coastal communities from the looming threats of climate change. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Department of Fisheries has identified 100 coastal fishermen villages as Climate Resilient Coastal Fishermen Villages (CRCFV). This initiative aims to enhance the livelihoods of fishermen and bolster the Blue Economy by implementing various need-based facilities and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.
Strengthening Coastal Communities
The Department of Fisheries, part of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has recognized the urgent need to address the challenges posed by climate change to coastal livelihoods. The PMMSY initiative focuses on developing essential infrastructure in the identified CRCFVs, including fish drying yards, processing centers, markets, jetties, ice plants, and cold storage facilities. These developments are designed to support local fishermen and their families, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive in an increasingly unpredictable environment. In addition to infrastructure, the government is promoting climate-resilient livelihoods through sustainable aquaculture practices. This includes the mariculture of seaweed, food and ornamental fishes, and bivalves. The initiative also provides financial support to traditional fishing families during lean periods, ensuring they have access to nutritional resources and insurance coverage under the PMMSY scheme. This comprehensive approach aims to create a more resilient fishing community that can withstand the impacts of climate change.
Combatting Marine Plastic Pollution
In its efforts to protect marine ecosystems, the Department of Fisheries has engaged in global initiatives to combat marine plastic pollution, particularly from the fishing and maritime sectors. Although the department has not received assistance from the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), it is actively participating in projects like the Glolitter Partnership and Reglitter Project. These initiatives, implemented in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization and FAO, focus on reducing marine plastic litter from sea-based sources, particularly abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear. Additionally, the Bay of Bengal Large Marine Ecosystem (BOBLME) Project, funded by the Global Environment Facility and NORAD, promotes an Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM). This approach integrates ecological health, social equity, and economic sustainability, ensuring that fisheries management addresses the broader needs of ecosystems and coastal communities.
International Collaboration on Fisheries Management
The Department of Fisheries recently hosted a workshop organized by the FAO, aimed at mainstreaming climate change into international fisheries governance. Held from October 16 to 19, 2023, the workshop brought together over 15 regional fisheries bodies to discuss collaboration opportunities and capacity development needs in fisheries management. This event underscores India’s commitment to addressing climate change impacts on fisheries and fostering international cooperation in sustainable practices.
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