Odisha: MSC Certification for Chilika Lake’s mud crab fishery.

To boost India’s inland fisheries, a joint initiative led by ICAR-CIFRI (Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute) and Chilika Development Authority (CDA) aims to secure Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for Chilika Lake’s mud crab fishery.

MSC Certification –

• The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is an international non-profit organisation promoting sustainable fishing through its eco-label and certification programme.

• MSC certification is a globally recognised eco-label for wild-capture fisheries that ensure sustainable fish stocks, low environmental impact, and adaptive, effective management. It promotes responsible fishing to secure healthy oceans and sustainable seafood for future generations.

• The certification enhances export value, supports biodiversity conservation, and ensures livelihood security.

• The Chilika mud crab is India’s first inland fishery nominated for MSC’s sustainability certification.

India’s Fisheries Sector –

India is the second-largest fish producer, contributing 8% to global output and 4% in global fisheries exports. It ranks second in aquaculture, first in shrimp production, and third in capture fisheries.

Inland fisheries account for over 75% of total production.

The key fish-producing states include Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Karnataka.

Government of India has ushered a new horizon with initiatives & implementation of the following:

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).
• Marine Products Export Development Authority.

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