India's Ornamental Fisheries Sector Holds Immense Untapped Potential
India's ornamental fisheries sector possesses vast untapped potential and can emerge as a global leader with enhanced infrastructure, robust supply chains, and sustainable practices, experts emphasized at the third international conference on Sustainable Ornamental Fisheries – Way Forward (SOFI-WF 2026) in Kochi.
Key Factors Driving India's Potential
A Biju Kumar, vice-chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), delivered a keynote address highlighting India's advantages. "India possesses a vast aquatic environment, rich biodiversity in both freshwater and marine ecosystems, advanced breeding technologies for imported and domestic fish varieties, and skilled manpower essential for industrializing the sector," he stated.
Kumar stressed the immediate need for industrial-scale breeding, certification-driven trade, and integration into global supply chains. "The ornamental fish industry worldwide is passion-driven. India must build a network of professional breeders, supported by universities and research institutions, to compete globally," he added.
Government Initiatives and International Support
Union fisheries joint secretary Sagar Mehra outlined policy initiatives and actions being taken to promote the ornamental fisheries sector in India. He emphasized learning best practices from international experts at the conference and called for submitting workshop suggestions for implementation in the PMMKSSY scheme, set to launch in the coming financial year.
Jonathan Poh, secretary-general of Ornamental Fish International (OFI) in Singapore, offered full international support for promoting India's ornamental fisheries industry. "The Indian ornamental fish trade is like a pearl oyster yet to be opened. If you can find the pearl within, you'll be able to share it with the rest of the world," Poh remarked.
Kerala's Pioneering Role and Event Details
B Madhusoodana Kurup highlighted Kerala's pioneering role in developing India's ornamental fish industry, tracing its growth from early exhibitions like Aqua Fest to a globally recognized sector. The conference, part of the golden jubilee celebration of the School of Industrial Fisheries at Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), attracted renowned experts from Singapore, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Australia, as well as scientists, researchers, industry personnel, farmers, and students from across India.
The three-day event featured:
- Scientific sessions
- Panel discussions
- Farmer meetings
- Field visits
The conference will conclude on Saturday, with participants optimistic about India's future in the global ornamental fisheries market.
