Odisha government has set an ambitious roadmap to transform the state into a major hub for deep-sea fishing and shrimp production under two flagship initiatives — the Odisha Deep Sea Fishing Mission and the Odisha Shrimp Mission.
Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallik inaugurated the state-level Stakeholder Consultation Workshop today, declaring that both missions will drive Odisha’s emergence as a Blue Economy leader.
“Odisha will be developed as the hub of marine fish production and shrimp exports in eastern India,” Mallik said. “The state government is fully committed to making these two missions a resounding success.”
Ambitious Targets for Deep-Sea Fishing Mission
Under the Deep Sea Fishing Mission, the government plans to harness the untapped marine wealth of the Bay of Bengal’s deeper waters.
Key targets:
- An additional 2 lakh metric tonnes of marine fish production annually
- Creation of over 50,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities
- Doubling or tripling the income of fisherfolk
- Increasing annual marine export revenue to ₹5,000 crore by 2036
Infrastructure plans involve constructing 150 new deep-sea fishing vessels, modernising 500 mechanised boats, upgrading major fishing harbours at Paradip, Dhamra, Chandipur, and Astaranga to world-class standards, and developing infrastructure at 103 fish landing centres.
Shrimp Mission to Revolutionise Aquaculture
The Odisha Shrimp Mission aims to position the state as India’s top shrimp producer and exporter through super-intensive farming techniques. The mission targets 30–40 metric tonnes per hectare annually using advanced, responsible aquaculture practices. It also includes setting up shrimp hatcheries, feed mills, and supporting infrastructure.
Minister Mallik emphasised that these initiatives will significantly boost livelihood security, employment, and export earnings while promoting sustainable practices.
Landmark MoU Signed
On the sidelines of the workshop, the Fisheries Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) for “Responsible Aquaculture Zone Planning” and “Geospatial Mapping” to ensure long-term sustainability of aquaculture activities.
Fisheries Secretary Premchandra Choudhury presented a detailed vision of both missions. Fisheries Director Siddharth Das delivered the welcome address, while Additional Director (Technical) Subrat Das proposed the vote of thanks.
Senior officials from the Union Ministry of Fisheries, ICAR institutions, the National Fisheries Development Board, and stakeholders from across the country actively participated in five technical sessions, offering valuable suggestions for successful implementation.
The workshop marks a significant step toward realising Odisha’s blue economy potential and positioning the state as a national leader in marine fisheries and shrimp aquaculture.
