Sagar Parikrama

Why is in news? Union Minister, Shri Parshottam Rupala led the Phase - VIII of Sagar Parikrama

“Sagar Parikrama” is an evolutionary journey envisaged across the coastal belt demonstrating solidarity amongst all fisher folk, fish farmers and other stakeholders while also understand the on-ground challenges and problems of the fishers.

The first part of Sagar Parikrama was launched on 5th March 2022 from Mandvi,Gujarat (Sagar Parikrama–Phase I) and completed on 12th June 2023 at Vizhinjam, Kerala (Sagar Parikrama–Phase VII)covering key areas on the west coast of the country.

The second part of Sagar Parikrama aims to cover the East coast of the country, hence Phase - VIII of Sagar Parikrama led by Union Minister, Shri Parshottam Rupala resumed from Vizhinjam, Kerala on 31st August 2023 and will continue to cover the eastern coastal states of the country in subsequent phases.

About the Yatra:

It is a navigation journey to be conducted in all coastal states/UTs through a pre-decided sea route to demonstrate solidarity with all fisherfolk, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders.

The aim is to resolve the issues of the fishers, other stakeholders and facilitate their economic upliftment through various fisheries schemes and programs being implemented by the Government of India such as Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC).

The nodal Ministry is Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.

Significance: It will focus on sustainable balance between the utilisation of marine fisheries resources for food security of the nation and livelihoods of coastal fisher communities and protection of marine ecosystems.

Status of the Fisheries Sector in India:

India is the second major producer of fish through aquaculture in the world.

India is the 4th largest exporter of fish in the world as it contributes 7.7% to the global fish production.

Also, India ranks 1st in inland capture fish production and 3rd in overall fish production in the world.

Currently, this sector provides livelihood to more than 2.8 crore people within the country.