Proceedings of Brainstorming Session on Development of Island Fisheries

Abstract

Andaman and Nicobar Islands encompass 0.60 million sq. km of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which constitutes about 30% of the EEZ of India. The Andaman Sea is also potentially rich in grouper, snapper, lobster and shrimp resources that are having export potential. Out of the potential harvestable fishery resources of 1.48 lakh tonnes, tuna resources alone account for 67,000 tones. A glimpse at the present catch which stands at 28,000 tons per annum against the estimated potential indicates the extent of under-utilization of resources in Andaman. A closer look on the catch composition would suggest that the gulf is widened more specifically due to the gross underutilization of the tuna resources, whose current annual landings linger around 800-1000 tones. Andaman is also blessed with bays, creeks and inlets areas best suited for cage culture of fin fishes. This provides a great opportunity to exploit the vast resources of the seas around these Islands to our advantage. In the aquaculture front, A&N Islands have large brackishwater areas. The inundation of land, post-tsunami has only added its scope and these areas can be easily utilized for brackishwater farming. In this context, sustainable exploitation of tuna fishery and development of cage culture industry in the Islands will facilitate establishment of subsidiary industries which will not only boost export but will also generate employment avenues to the people of Andaman. Apart from these, freshwater and brackishwater aquaculture, marine ornamental fish breeding and farming and post harvest technology are some of the thrust areas where emphasis need to be given for development. Hence, a systematic effort to evolve strategies for sustainable development in fisheries sector is the need of the hour and the Brainstorming session has rightly dwelt upon development of island fisheries. I greatly appreciate the futuristic effort taken by the scientists of CARI for the development of fisheries in this Bay Island. I am convinced that this publication featuring the lead articles related to the identified thrust areas for development of fisheries in Andaman would be of immense use for evolving developmental plans for efficient and sustainable utilization of the valuable resources around the Islands.