The Central Government has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), satellite communication, and digital traceability systems to bolster monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) in the fisheries sector. This initiative aims to curb illegal fishing and enhance seafood quality, as presented at a regional high-level policy meet on AI in fisheries held in Mumbai.
AI-Driven Fisheries Governance
The two-day meet, organized by the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation under the Bay of Bengal Large Marine Ecosystem Project, gathered policymakers, fisheries administrators, international organizations, and technology experts from India, Bangladesh, Maldives, and Sri Lanka. Regional bodies such as BIMSTEC, SAARC, and SEAFDEC were also present to discuss AI's role in fisheries governance.
Government Initiatives
Sanjay Pandey, Deputy Commissioner of Fisheries, outlined digital governance initiatives laying the foundation for AI-enabled fisheries management. The government is positioning AI as a key tool to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, improve fisher safety, and build a transparent fisheries supply chain from catch to consumer. A significant highlight is the nationwide expansion of the ReALCraft digital platform, a web-enabled system for registering and monitoring fishing vessels. Over 225,000 fishing vessels have been registered under this system across all coastal states and Union Territories.
Expert Insights
Union Fisheries Joint Secretary Surabhi Rai emphasized the need for practical and inclusive solutions benefiting small-scale fishers. She highlighted the importance of regional cooperation among Bay of Bengal countries to tackle IUU fishing. J.K. Jena, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), noted AI's transformative potential across the fisheries value chain, from harvest to consumers. Rishi Sharma, Senior Fisheries Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), stated,
"AI is emerging as an important governance tool for fisheries management amid growing pressure on global resources."
Comparative Data
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| ReALCraft Platform | Registration and monitoring of vessels | 225,000 vessels registered |
| AI-Enabled Monitoring | Vessel behavior analytics and safety alerts | Improved traceability and safety |
The roadmap's success hinges on collaboration among regional stakeholders and the effective implementation of AI technologies to ensure sustainable and transparent fisheries management.
