Current Issues with Fish and Fisheries Sector: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

The fish and fisheries sector plays an important role in global food security, employment and economic development. At now, with a total production of 214 million tonnes in fisheries and aquaculture, including 178 million tonnes of aquatic animals and 36 million tonnes of algae, these sectors are making an important contribution to ensuring global food security. Moreover this sector also provides employment to millions of peoples directly or indirectly and also generated higher assets. With 16.24 million tonnes of fish production in India, the sector contributes 1.1% to the Indian economy. Also the sector has become the third largest fish producing country with a contribution of 8% to the global fish production and ranks second in aquaculture production. But in present this sector faces environmental threats (overfishing, habitat destruction and climate change), economic challenges (market fluctuations, IUU fishing and limited access) and social issues (food security, gender inequality and community displacement) around the world. Therefore, to solve these challenges, a holistic approach such as sustainable fisheries management practices, climate change adaptation strategies and collaborative efforts involving governments, the fishing industry, scientists and local communities is required that may be helpful in reducing these problems. This article highlights the interconnected nature of the challenges faced by the fish and fisheries sector and underlines the appropriate step to protect this important resource for food safety, livelihood and environmental protection.