AquaEx India 2024, spearheaded by Mr. Venu Dantuluri, is embarking on a transformative journey to extend its reach to Western India, signalling a significant leap forward in the aquaculture landscape. As the largest Fisheries & Aquaculture exposition, AquaEx India has historically been a beacon of innovation and collaboration, driving industry growth and fostering partnerships across the sector. However, recent challenges have underscored the urgency of revitalizing the aquaculture sector, necessitating strategic initiatives to navigate the current landscape.
The aquaculture industry has faced headwinds in recent years, grappling with a myriad of challenges that have impacted its growth trajectory. Issues such as environmental degradation, disease outbreaks, market volatility, and regulatory constraints have contributed to a slowdown in sectoral expansion. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges, disrupting supply chains, and dampening consumer demand, further straining the resilience of aquaculture enterprises.
AquaEx India has a proven track record of success, having organized several editions in the past, including AquaEx India-2018, AquaEx India-2019, AquaEx India-2020, AquaEx India-2022 and AquaEx India 2023. These events have been instrumental in facilitating industry convergence, showcasing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
Eminence of Gujarat in Fisheries and Aquaculture
Gujarat, situated along India’s west coast, stands as a frontrunner in the fishing industry, covering a significant portion of the nation’s shoreline and exclusive economic zone. Approximately 20% of India’s marine production originates from Gujarat, highlighting its pivotal role in the country’s fisheries sector. With six major reservoirs, numerous small water bodies, and the expansive Sardar Sarovar command area, Gujarat offers abundant fishing opportunities.
The fisheries sector serves as a vital source of livelihood for coastal communities, providing employment to thousands of individuals involved in fishing, trading, and processing activities. Districts like Valsad, Surat, and Bharuch are renowned for their valuable fish species such as prawns, contributing to the economic prosperity of fishermen. Gujarat’s fish and fish product export industry thrives due to its extensive coastline, modern processing facilities, and a robust network of fishermen.
In recent years, the state has invested in infrastructure development, including fishing harbours, landing centres, and cold storage facilities, to enhance post-harvest handling and storage capabilities. Government initiatives aimed at providing financial assistance, training, and technological support further bolster the growth of the fisheries sector, showcasing Gujarat’s commitment to sustainable development and economic prosperity in the aquaculture industry.
AquaEx India 2024’s Foray into the Western Hemisphere
In light of these challenges, AquaEx India’s foray into Western India holds immense promise for revitalizing the sector and fostering resilience amidst adversity. Led by Mr. Dantuluri and Directors Mr. Samir Patra and Mr. I.V Reddy, the strategic expedition to Surat, Gujarat, seeks to leverage the region’s burgeoning aquaculture ecosystem to drive innovation and collaboration. By engaging with key stakeholders and industry luminaries, including Dr. Manoj Sharma and Mr. Pradip Navik, AquaEx India aims to galvanize collective action and chart a path towards sustainable growth and prosperity.
Dr. Manoj Sharma, a revered scientist and esteemed aquapreneur renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the field, emerged as a pivotal figure in discussions. Dr. Sharma’s Zhingalala Restaurant Chain presents a promising avenue for innovative synergies, offering a platform to showcase AquaEx India’s initiatives and advancements to a broader audience.
In addition to Dr. Sharma, the team met with Mr. Pradip Navik, President of the Gujarat Aquaculture Farmers and Dealers Association (GAFDA), and Smt. B.R Patel, Assistant Director of Fisheries, Gujarat, to underscore the significance of AquaEx India 2024. Their participation highlights the immense opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit, underscoring AquaEx India’s pivotal role in driving economic growth and sustainability in the region’s fisheries and aquaculture sector.
