Fisheries Sector at a Glance The publication, “Handbook of Fisheries Statistics 2025,” presents time-series data on fish Tproduction in India and the world, the disposition of fish in India, the fisheries economy, exports, welfare, expenditure, and more. The information is based on data received from various sections of the Department of Fisheries (Government of India), Departments of Fisheries of State Governments and Union Territory Administrations, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Department of Financial Services (DFS), and many others. The Ministry gratefully acknowledges the cooperation of these organizations and looks forward to their continued support in the future as well. Overview of India's Fisheries Sector (1950-51 to 2024-25) India's fisheries sector has witnessed remarkable growth and structural transformation over the past seven decades, evolving from a primarily marine-based activity to a predominantly inland and aquaculture-driven sector. Total fish production increased from 7.52 lakh tonnes in 1950-51 to a projected 197.75 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, representing an over 26-fold increase. Inland fish production rose from 2.18 lakh tonnes (29%) in 1950-51 to 151.60 lakh tonnes (77%) in 2024-25, highlighting the sector's rapid shift toward freshwater and aquaculture resources. Marine production, while growing modestly, expanded from 5.34 lakh tonnes (71%) in 1950-51 to 46.15 lakh tonnes (23%) in 2024-25. The annual growth rate for total fish production in 2024-25 is projected at 7.51%, with inland fisheries contributing over three-fourths of national output. This expansion reflects major technological, policy, and institutional interventions-including the Blue Revolution, NFDB programs, and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). State-wise Trends and Regional Performance Top Producing States (2024-25 P) Andhra Pradesh leads the nation with 55.39 lakh tonnes (28% of national total), of which 48.88 lakh tonnes are from inland sources. West Bengal follows with 23.74 lakh tonnes, predominantly inland. Odisha (11.92 lakh tonnes), Uttar Pradesh (13.31 lakh tonnes), and Bihar (9.60 lakh tonnes) show strong inland growth. Marine production is concentrated in Gujarat (7.64 lakh tonnes), Tamil Nadu (6.81 lakh tonnes), and Kerala (6.47 lakh tonnes). Growth Rates Between 2019-20 and 2024-25, India's total fish production grew at an average annual rate of 6.47%, with inland fisheries growing at 7.69% and marine at 3.05%. States with the fastest overall growth include Madhya Pradesh (17%), Rajasthan (≈13%), Uttar Pradesh (12%), Odisha (≈8%), and Andhra Pradesh (≈6%). The inland dominance is evident - in 2024-25, 18 states report negligible marine output, underscoring the sector's geographic diversification and reliance on aquaculture. Species Composition and Production Structure Inland Fisheries (2023-24 to 2024-25 P) Major carps (Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal) remain the backbone of inland aquaculture, constituting 54% of total inland production. Exotic carps, catfishes, and murrels contribute significant shares, while "others" (including tilapia, pangasius, shellfish, etc.) account for nearly 24%. Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha dominate multi-species inland culture systems. Marine and Brackish Water Landings On the east coast, key species landed include prawns (3.04 lakh tonnes), Indian mackerel, croakers, ribbon fishes, pomfrets, and hilsa shad. On the west coast, Gujarat and Kerala lead in pelagic resources such as oil sardine, mackerel, and tuna, along with crustaceans and molluscs. Brackish water aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, remains a major export-oriented sub-sector. Economic Indicators and Export Trends The fisheries and aquaculture sector contributes significantly to India's Gross Value Added (GVA) and export earnings: The share of the fisheries sector in agricultural GVA has been consistently rising, driven by aquaculture-led growth. Exports of marine products have shown sustained expansion from 2011-12 to 2023-24, with major markets including the USA, EU, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Frozen shrimp remains the dominant export commodity, accounting for over 70% of export earnings. The value of output from fisheries and aquaculture (at current prices) has grown multi-fold between 2011-12 and 2023-24, reflecting both increased production and improved market realization. Consumption and Fish Seed Production Per capita fish consumption has been steadily increasing across most states, indicating rising domestic demand and nutrition awareness. Fish seed production-a critical input for aquaculture expansion-has also increased substantially, supporting the sustained growth of inland aquaculture in states like Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. Emerging Patterns and Sectoral Insights The centre of gravity of fish production in India has decisively shifted inland aquaculture now drives overall output and employment. Regional specialization is visible: Andhra Pradesh (intensive aquaculture), Gujarat and Tamil Nadu (marine capture), and West Bengal and Odisha (brackish water and inland composite systems). The species portfolio is diversifying, with expansion into tilapia, pangasius, and ornamental species alongside traditional carps. Export diversification and value-added processing are strengthening India's global competitiveness. Policy Insights Based on data trends from 1950-51 to 2024-25, the following insights emerge: Inland aquaculture is the primary growth engine - accounting for over three-fourths of national production. Continued investments in seed quality, feed, and water management will be essential. Marine fisheries growth is moderate, indicating the need for resource optimization, deep-sea fishing, and ecosystem-based management. Regional imbalances persist - eastern and southern states dominate inland output; western coastal states dominate marine. Strengthening low-performing inland states (e.g., northern and Himalayan regions) can broaden the base. Post-harvest and value chain infrastructure (cold storage, processing, marketing) remain key to sustaining profitability and reducing losses. Research and data systems (through ICAR, CIFRI, CMFRI, CIBA, etc.) should focus on climate-resilient species, disease management, and digital traceability in value chains. Policy integration under PMMSY and alignment with Blue Economy principles can ensure sustainability, livelihoods, and export competitiveness. Summary Perspective India's fisheries sector exemplifies one of the most consistent success stories within the agricultural domain - combining productivity, inclusivity, and resilience. The transition from marine dominance to aquaculture leadership positions India as a global model for sustainable fisheries development. The data underscore both achievements and areas for strategic policy attention - particularly in inland infrastructure, species diversification, and ecosystem sustainability. Source : Handbook of Fisheries Statistics