India ranks as the second-largest fish-producing country, contributing approximately 8% to global fish production, according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying. The Ministry highlighted that India’s fisheries sector has experienced significant growth over the last two decades, driven by technological advancements and policy reforms.
The Union Budget for 2025-26 allocated a record ₹2,703.67 crores (approx. £2.6 billion) for the fisheries sector. This funding aims to support sustainable fisheries practices, with a focus on resources from the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and High Seas, particularly around Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
In addition, the government increased the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) lending limit from ₹3 lakh (approx. £2,400) to ₹5 lakh (approx. £4,000), improving access to credit for fishers, farmers, and other stakeholders in the sector.
India’s inland and aquaculture fish production saw a notable rise, increasing by 77.71 lakh tonnes from 2014 to 2024, compared to 26.78 lakh tonnes from 2004 to 2014. Marine fish production also doubled, reaching 10.52 lakh tonnes in 2014-24, up from 5.02 lakh tonnes in the previous decade.
According to the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), India exported 17.81 lakh tonnes of seafood in 2023-24, valued at ₹60,523.89 crore (approx. £5.9 billion). This marked a significant increase from ₹609.95 crore (approx. £59 million) in 2003-04.
