India will come up with e-observer system for remote monitoring of fishing: Union Fisheries Secretary

The Fisheries Secretary was speaking after inaugurating a five-day global workshop on species identification organised by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and Fishery Survey of India (FSI) in Kochi

Highlighting India’s efforts to strengthen its fisheries data management system, Union Fisheries Secretary Dr Abhilaksh Likhi has said that the government will soon come up with an onboard electronic observer system for remote monitoring and recording of marine fish catch. According to him, this is aimed at providing accurate scientific data for stock assessment and management by observing fishing operations across various vessel types.

The Fisheries Secretary was speaking after inaugurating a five-day global workshop on species identification organised by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and Fishery Survey of India (FSI) in Kochi.

Electronic monitoring and efficient data collection on tuna and tuna-like fish catches and fishing activities are critical to improve the management of these fisheries in accordance with the IOTC guidelines, which mandates observer coverage and electronic monitoring. The e-observer is being developed by the FSI, under the Fisheries Ministry.

Apart from a conservation tool, science-backed credible data is India’s strongest defense against non-tariff barriers and allegations, the Secretary said. “It is the passport that secures our access to international markets and protects our fishers and exporters from trade challenges by ensuring them a level playing field in export markets,” Dr Likhi added.

On the government’s intervention in this direction, the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Secretary said that nearly 36000 fishing vessels have been equipped with transponders for real-time monitoring.

Since tunas, tuna-like species and pelagic sharks are highly migratory resources, India is committed to join hands for a regional and international cooperation in data collection and management, Dr Likhi said, adding that the country would take steps for long-term sustainability of its fisheries while protecting the livelihoods of millions dependent on the sector.

Fisheries experts and officials from 12 nations, including Japan, France, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Africa and 18 officials from various coastal states of India are attending the workshop.