World Fisheries Day: November 21

Every year, the World Fisheries Day is celebrated on November 21.

Why is it important to celebrate World Fisheries Day?

According to the United Nations, more than two-thirds of the world fisheries are overfished. Therefore, it is important to celebrate the day to create awareness about sustainable fishing.

What is the theme of the World Fisheries Day?

The World Fisheries Day is to be celebrated under the theme

Theme: Social Responsibility in the fisheries value chain

Why is the Fisheries sector important?

Small scale fisheries employ more than 90% of people employed in fisheries. Around 65% of fish caught from inland fisheries are from low-income food deficit countries. More than 25% of world dietary protein is provided by the fish. The total fish consumption in the world is 100 million tonnes. Therefore, it is important to focus on changing the way the world manages global fisheries in order to ensure sustainable fish stocks.

How is World Fisheries Day celebrated in India?

For the first time, the Department of Fisheries operating under the Ministry of Fisheries is celebrating World Fisheries Day. The Department is to confer best performing states in Fisheries award on World Fisheries Day. Assam has won the award among Hilly and North East States. The best performing state award among inland states is to be provided to Uttar Pradesh and Odisha.

What are the efforts of GoI to develop fisheries sector?

The Government of India had launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana at Rs 20,050 crores. The programme aims to achieve 22 million tonnes of fish production by 2024-25. Also, it is expected to create employment opportunity to 55 lakh people.

How important is Fisheries Sector in India?

Around 28 million people are employed in fisheries sector in India. India ranks fourth in global export of fish. Also, India accounts to 7.7% global fish production.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2020