Delhi : In a significant move to celebrate the achievements of fishers, fish farmers, and other stakeholders while reinforcing the commitment to sustainable and equitable development of the fisheries sector, the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D), Government of India, will be organizing the Global Fisheries Conference India 2023 (GFC-2023) on the occasion of World Fisheries Day.

The two-day event, scheduled for 21-22 November 2023, at the Gujarat Science City in Ahmedabad, will be held under the theme “Celebrate the Fisheries and Aquaculture Wealth.” This platform aims to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders, including foreign missions, experts, government officials, think-tanks, academia, international organizations, industry associations, and key stakeholders, to foster collaboration and exchange ideas for the advancement of the fisheries sector.

Union Minister of Fishing, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Parshottam Rupala, who addressed a curtain raiser press conference in New Delhi today, emphasized the importance of the conference in showcasing India’s fisheries sector prowess. He stated that the Department of Fisheries has extended invitations to prominent organizations such as the World Bank, FAO, and various countries, and is eagerly awaiting their participation.

Addressing media queries, Parshottam Rupala highlighted the government’s initiatives in promoting shrimp cultivation, fisheries infrastructure development, financial inclusion, and domestic fish consumption. He expressed confidence in achieving the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) target of 22 million metric tonnes (MMT) of fish production and achieving Rs 1 lakh crore in exports by FY 2024-25.

Dr. L Murugan, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Information and Broadcasting, emphasized the conference’s focus on sustainable growth and its role in providing a platform for knowledge sharing, technology exchange, and market linkage opportunities. He highlighted the showcase of key government initiatives such as Sagar Parikrama, PMMSY, and fisheries infrastructure development.

The unveiling of the event logo by Union Minister Parshottam Rupala further symbolized India’s Fisheries Sector’s global achievements and the significant contributions of fishers and fishermen communities to nation-building.

The fisheries sector is recognized as a sunrise sector with immense potential for equitable and inclusive growth, empowering weaker sections of society. With an 8% share in global fish production, India stands as the 3rd largest fish producer, 2nd largest aquaculture producer, largest shrimp producer, and 4th largest seafood exporter in the world.

The Global Fisheries Conference India 2023 promises to be a landmark event, bringing together stakeholders from across the globe to celebrate India’s fisheries sector triumphs and chart a course for its continued growth and sustainable development.