India wants eco-label for traditionally-caught tuna

According to Union Fisheries Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), global certification and traceability are the next major interventions in India’s fisheries sector. As such, he said the government will take steps to obtain globally recognised ecolabelling certification for the pole-and-line and handline tuna fisheries of Lakshadweep which have low environmental impact and positive social benefits.  

“This move aims to promote the sustainability of these traditional fishing methods, providing market access and premium prices for eco-certified tuna products,” the minister informed a fisheries consultative meeting in Kochi. “With proper certification and market access, Lakshadweep tuna can fetch premium prices, benefiting artisanal fishers in the archipelago.”

He also said that seaweed farming and ornamental fisheries are highly prospective in the Island, with a strong potential for participation of women and also community-based livelihood enhancement. 

Referring to the government’s deepsea fishing plan, the minister said legal instruments for enabling sustainable fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and high seas are underway in consultation with the coastal states and UTs. 

Central government is committed to advancing the sector with a focus on sustainable harness of deepsea resources, he added. 

The event was jointly organised by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) and Fishery Survey of India (FSI). 

Lakshadweep Administrator Shri Praful Patel also highlighted that the 4,000 square metre lagoon in Lakshadweep holds immense potential for seaweed cultivation, offering new avenues to improve the livelihoods of islanders.  

“The region can emerge as the global hub for seaweed farming,” he said.