World Fisheries Day: Commemorating the Lifeline of Aquatic Systems

On every 21st of November, a global celebration known as the World Fisheries Day seeks to raise
awareness on the importance of fisheries and aquatic systems in supporting life, income, and
ecology. Landings conducted in honour of this day underscore matters of sustainable fishing, the
livelihood of fishers and the status of the marine ecosystem. This day also deems worthy in focusing
the importance of fisheries sector in Indian economy and livelihood aspects along the extended sea
frontiers and numerous water bodies are inherent to the Indian geography.

WORLD FISHERIES DAY World Fisheries Day is a remembrance and a call to validate the value of
fisheries and aquaculture for all citizens rounded the global.

What Are The Origins Of World Fisheries Day?

World Fisheries Day was first celebrated in 1997 when the World Forum of Fish Harvesters and Fish
Workers was formed in New Delhi, India. Members from 18 countries attended the launching of the
World Fisheries Forum aimed at promoting responsible fishing.

• Historical Importance: Understands the importance of protection of fish stock and
  the threat posed by over fishing.
• Global Adoption: It was accredited by food and agricultural organization-FAO in 2003
  to foster the global fisheries industry that is facing several threats.

World Fisheries Day should be celebrated because of the following reasons:

Fisheries provide critical resources:

1. Food Security: Fish supplies over 20% of animal protein for more than 3 billion
   people in the world.
2. Livelihoods: Provides support to over 58 million employees globally, including rural
   workers.
3. Biodiversity Conservation: Facilitates the management of aquatic ecosystems in a
   manner that is ecological, economically and socially responsible.

The third largest producer of fish in the world.

The second largest producer of aquaculture in the world after China.

The biggest exporter of shrimp and plays a very important role in the export of seafood around the world. Fishries Day, observed annually on November 21, shines a spotlight on the pivotal role of fisheries and
aquatic ecosystems in sustaining life, livelihoods, and environmental balance. This global observance
highlights the importance of sustainable fishing practices, the welfare of fishing communities, and
the conservation of marine biodiversity. For India, with its extensive coastline and rich inland water
resources, this day also emphasizes the significance of the fisheries sector as a backbone of the
economy and a source of employment.

The Origins and Purpose of World Fisheries Day

How Did World Fisheries Day Begin?

World Fisheries Day was first observed in 1997 during the establishment of the World Forum of Fish
Harvesters and Fish Workers in New Delhi, India. Representatives from 18 countries gathered to
form the World Fisheries Forum, advocating for sustainable fishing practices.

• Historical Importance: Recognizes the need for conservation and the dangers of
  overfishing.
• Global Adoption: Officially recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization
  (FAO) in 2003 to address the challenges threatening fisheries globally.

The Fisheries Sector in India

India’s Global Standing

India ranks as:

• The third-largest fish producer globally.
• The second-largest aquaculture producer after China.
• The largest shrimp exporter, contributing significantly to global seafood trade.

Contribution to the Economy

• Employment: More than 30 million inhabitants, mostly from the coastal and rural
  sectors, are engaged in fisheries.
• Blue Economy: Fisheries contribute only 1.07% to its GDP but hold importance for
  success of targets under PMMSY.
• Export Earnings: Has the objective of attaining ₹1 lakh crore in seafood exports by
  fiscal 2025.

Greening the World’s Fisheries

Initiatives for Conservation

Governments and organizations globally are focusing on sustainable fisheries management:

1. National Plan of Action (NPOA) for Sharks: Carries the mission of protecting sharks.
2. Marine Fisheries Census: Gathers information about the fish resources with an aim
   of improving the kind of policies that are being formulated in the country.
3. Bay of Bengal Regional Plan of Action (BoB-RPOA): Combats cases of poaching and
   piracy in the region.

Blue Economy in India

The Indian government has launched several initiatives:

• Retrofitted LPG Kits: Biodegradable fishing materials to minimize pollution of the
  environment.
• Single Window System for Aquaculture: Simplifies licensing for fish farmers.
• Community Empowerment: Supports the use of non-mechanized means of fishing
  and enhances the capability of petty fishers.

The Timing and Significance of Fish Migration

What Is Fish Migration?

Fish movements include daily, cyclical, or seasonal movements by fish for spawning, feeding or to
escape unfavorable conditions. Examples include:

• Anadromous Species: Adult salmon swim against the current in order to spawn their
  eggs.
• Catadromous Species: Eels use the fresh water to grow up and then move to the sea
  to mate.

Why Does It Matter?

• Ecological Role: It is important in maintaining populations of fish and genetic
  variation in stocks.
• Economic Impact: Supports fishing industries based on migratory fish stocks.
• Conservation Efforts: Demands that rivers must always be flowing and oceans to be
  vibrant.
  

To mark World Fisheries Day

Global Observance

• World Fisheries Day is celebrated with events emphasizing sustainable practices, including:
• Community Workshops: Raising awareness about environmentally friendly fishing
  practices.
• Policy Announcements: Governments publish strategies for countering overfishing
  and illegality.
• Cultural Events: Appreciation of the Fishing Communities.

Activities in India

The Department of Fisheries organizes events, such as:

1. Initiating environmental friendly undertakings.
2. Carrying out awareness creation on marine conservation.
3. Demonstrating participation in traditional fishing methods.

FAQs on World Fisheries Day

Conclusion

This is all part of what World Fisheries Day represents and keeps the world aware of the importance
of fisheries in feeding people, sustaining livelihoods, and maintaining the fabric of our environment.
Land and sea resources can be protected for future food production and livelihood by adopting
sustainable fishing practices and empowering artisanal fishers. It is time to resolve to cherish and
preserve our water bodies at all times.

Sources

1. Vajiram & Ravi – World Fisheries Day 2025
2. Oliveboard – World Fisheries Day History and Importance
3. GKToday – Fisheries in India