Policy on 'blue growth' in the offing

The government will bring in a new policy for aquaculture growth, considering its vast potential, and for sustainable food security.

"'Blue growth' is an important area for sustainable food security. The under exploited potential resources of the country can usher in a 'blue revolution' or 'aquaplosion' by utilising the same," Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh said, inaugurating the 33rd Session of Asia Pacific Fisheries Commission in Hyderabad Monday.

According to FAO estimates, the human consumption of fish is about 80 perent of the world's fish production at per capita of 17.1 kilogram which is expected to rise considerably by the year 2030.

"Now, we are finalising the guidelines for foraying in to mariculture (farming with sea water) in cages along with cage culture in open water bodies such as reservoirs," said Singh.

The cage culture is aimed at effective and optimal tapping the potential for natural water resources of marine and inland waters.

India stands world number two in global fish production. However, the sector is confronted with "serious inadequacies of planning, funding and management", said the minister.

The fisheries sector is one of the most rapidly growing sectors of the global agricultural economy and the only solution to the global availability of food fish. But it is faced with several challenges ranging from availability of seeds and feed, environmental threats, disease risks and trade barriers.

Singh offered India's cooperation in aquaculture and fisheries to other countries, both for their sustainable development and management.