Government Invests ₹39,272 Crore to Revolutionize Indias Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector

Mumbai, April 1: India’s fisheries sector is becoming a vital engine of economic growth, significantly contributing to food security and supporting millions of livelihoods in coastal and rural areas. Once primarily focused on production, the sector is now attracting innovative ideas and entrepreneurial talent, leading to a burgeoning fisheries start-up ecosystem, as stated by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying on March 27, 2026.

Investment Boost Fuels Fisheries Growth

Since 2015, the Government has allocated ₹39,272 crore through various initiatives to promote sustainable development in fisheries and aquaculture. This investment has spurred the emergence of over 300 start-ups, many utilizing advanced technologies like blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) to create innovative and commercially viable solutions that enhance productivity, ensure traceability, and improve value chain efficiencies.

“To tackle the challenges within the fisheries value chain, we have identified several problem statements that focus on developing nutritious and affordable aquaculture feeds from sustainable sources, enhancing sustainability through AI-powered precision farming, building resilient seafood supply chains, minimizing waste while maximizing value, and integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology for sustainable fisheries,” the Ministry stated.

Technology Driving Efficiency and Sustainability

The integration of technology is transforming operations across the fisheries sector. IoT-enabled systems are utilized for real-time monitoring of water quality, pond health, and environmental conditions, allowing farmers to reduce costs and adopt precision aquaculture practices. “AI and machine learning tools are increasingly employed for disease prediction, biomass estimation, feed optimization, and decision-support systems that help farmers manage risks and improve yields,” the Ministry added.

Innovations such as recirculatory aquaculture systems (RAS), biofloc technology, and sensor-based farm management are enabling high-density, low-water farming, making aquaculture feasible even in resource-limited regions. At the post-harvest stage, the Government of India is encouraging start-ups to advance cold-chain logistics, solar-powered chilling units, smart ice-production systems, and AI-based quality grading to minimize spoilage and maintain export-grade standards.

According to the Ministry, emerging areas like seaweed cultivation technologies, genetic improvement tools, low-impact fishing gear, and satellite-based advisory systems are further broadening the sector’s innovation footprint, positioning India for enhanced global competitiveness.

Drone Technology Gains Traction

Drone technology is increasingly being adopted in India’s fisheries sector to enhance monitoring, decision-making, and farm efficiency. Start-ups and research groups are employing drones for rapid pond mapping, water-quality assessment, biomass estimation, and early detection of issues such as algal blooms or low oxygen zones. In coastal and marine areas, drones assist in shoreline surveillance, monitoring fishing activities, and assessing fish-stock movements.

In a notable initiative, the Department of Fisheries has launched a pilot project with the ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) in Kolkata, to develop specialized drone-based live fish transport systems. This drone is designed to carry up to 100 kg of live fish over a distance of 10 kilometers, potentially revolutionizing short-range logistics in aquaculture.

Policy Push Strengthens Start-up Ecosystem

Recognizing the importance of innovation, the Government has implemented targeted interventions to foster innovation in fisheries and aquaculture. The Department of Fisheries has organized a series of Fisheries Startup Conclaves to provide a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase solutions, collaborate, and explore opportunities within the sector.

The Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge was launched to identify start-ups offering solutions related to productivity, sustainability, and market access, inviting proposals ranging from digital farm-management tools to seafood supply-chain innovations. Selected start-ups receive financial support, mentorship, and incubation assistance, with pilot projects facilitated through field institutes. Following the success of its first edition, a second round has been introduced to deepen the innovation ecosystem with continued institutional support from organizations such as ICAR and the National Fisheries Development Board.

Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building

To complement these initiatives, the Department has introduced “Matsya Manthan,” a lecture series aimed at enhancing knowledge exchange within the sector. This platform brings together experts, researchers, and industry practitioners to discuss emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and policy priorities. Eleven sessions have been conducted so far, contributing to evidence-based policy-making and strategy development.

Additionally, five fisheries business incubation centers have been established across the country, including facilities at Guwahati Biotech Park, Assam; National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad; ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai; and ICAR-CIFT, Kochi. These centers provide mentorship, training, and support for developing viable business models.

Towards a Future-Ready Fisheries Sector

“Together, these initiatives are shaping a more dynamic and future-ready fisheries start-up ecosystem, where innovation, technology, and policy support are working in tandem to modernize the sector. With stronger institutional backing, growing entrepreneurial participation, and sustained government commitment, India is well-positioned to unlock new opportunities and drive long-term, sustainable growth across its fisheries and aquaculture landscape,” the Ministry concluded.