The Odisha state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Wednesday approved a proposal to introduce a new law aimed at regulating marine fishing. The legislation seeks to strengthen coastal surveillance using modern technology and curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing through stricter enforcement measures.
Repeal of Existing Act and Enactment of New Bill
The Fish and Animal Resources Development Department presented a memorandum before the cabinet, recommending the repeal of the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982, and the enactment of a new Odisha Marine Fishing (Prohibition and Regulation) Bill, 2026. The cabinet gave its approval to the memorandum for the Bill.
Limitations of Current Law
Chief Secretary Anu Garg stated that the existing law is limited in scope and insufficient to address emerging challenges such as marine resource conservation, fishermen's safety, coastal security, technological advancements, and preventing unauthorized entry of foreign fishing vessels.
Expanded Scope of Proposed Legislation
The proposed legislation broadens its ambit to include deep-sea fishing and the promotion of mariculture activities, such as marine cage culture, seaweed farming, and artificial reefs for rejuvenating territorial waters. It also envisions the modernization and improved management of fishing harbors and fish landing centers along the Odisha coast, with a focus on sustainable livelihoods and employment generation.
Emphasis on Safety and Security
The Bill places a strong emphasis on fishermen's safety and coastal security. It mandates the use of modern communication and tracking systems, including transponders, VHF radios, and vessel tracking and monitoring systems. Provisions such as biometric or QR-coded Aadhaar-based identification and enhanced insurance coverage are expected to strengthen surveillance and ensure safety at sea.
Curbing IUU Fishing
To combat IUU fishing, the legislation introduces stricter regulation of fishing vessels, fishermen, and related activities, including licensing norms, regulation of fishing gear, and prohibition of destructive practices. It also seeks to safeguard the interests of traditional fishers while strengthening monitoring and enforcement mechanisms for sustainable management of marine resources.
Alignment with State Vision
Aligned with the state's 'Viksit Odisha Vision 2036-47' and Blue Economy initiatives, the proposed law is expected to boost marine fisheries governance and accelerate economic growth. The government has set a target to scale up seafood exports to Rs 25,000 crore by 2036.
An official statement said, "The new legislation will ensure sustainable fisheries development while protecting marine ecosystems and improving the livelihood and safety of fishermen."
