THE first-ever investors’ meet in Lakshadweep Islands has seen Rs 519 crore worth of planned investment to unlock fisheries and aquacul ture potential, according to the Government. The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD), in collaboration with the Union Territory of Lakshadweep, organised the investors’ meet.

 

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said that the government issued fishing rules for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), therefore the fishermen operat ing in EEZ can now legally fish with an autho rised “Access Pass,” enabling them to export high-value tuna and other fish products to Sees Rs 519 cr worth investment plans international markets. As per international law, fishery resources present in India’s EEZ will now be recognised as “Indian Origin,” which will further facilitate the export of fish products, he said at the event.

 

Singh stated that the Government also issued the ‘High Seas Fishing Guidelines’ granting fishing vessels flying the Indian flag the legal right to operate in these waters. He urged investors to come for ward and seize the vast investment opportunities in the Islands, which have immense potential for high-val ue species such as tuna, in strong global demand. An interactive session was held to provide platforms to the investors to share experiences and highlight challenges.