Fifth Marine Fisheries Census

April 30, 2025

Recently, India commenced its fifth Marine Fisheries Census (MFC). This census marks shift towards a fully digital approach. It aims to gather comprehensive data on marine fishing communities across the coastal regions. The initiative was launched at a meeting of coastal states in Mumbai by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh. The census will cover 1.2 million households in about 3,500 villages.

Census

The Marine Fisheries Census has been conducted every five years since 2005. It aims to document every marine fisher family, fishing village, fishing craft, and associated infrastructure. The last census in 2016 recorded 3,477 fishing villages across 13 coastal states and Union Territories (UTs).

Digital Transformation

The 2025 census introduces a mobile application called VyAS-NAV. This app will facilitate real-time validation and data collection. Supervisors will use it for field verification of fishing villages, landing centres, and harbours. The digital platform aims to enhance the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the census.

Data Collection Focus

The census will collect detailed information about fishers. This includes their demographic and socio-economic status, alternative livelihood options, and fishing practices. The aim is to understand how government schemes impact these communities.

Insurance Scheme for Aquafarmers

During the census launch, the government introduced the first aquaculture insurance scheme. This initiative is part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY). It aims to provide financial security to marginalised aquafarmers. The scheme offers two types of insurance – basic and comprehensive.

Environmental Conservation Measures

The census also focuses on environmental conservation. Guidelines for the Turtle Excluder Device (TED) were launched. This device is designed to reduce by-catch during shrimp trawling. It aims to protect endangered species, particularly turtles.

Future Steps and Timeline

The enumeration process will be completed by December 2025. Village enumeration will be finalised by May-June. Family-level data collection will occur in November-December. Enumerators from the fishing community will assist in this process.

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