Big Benefit for Small Farmers

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In a significant development for India’s coastal aquaculture sector, the country’s parliament has passed a series of amendments to the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) Act of 2005. These amendments are expected to have far-reaching implications for small marginal aquaculture farmers and the sustainable growth of coastal aquaculture practices.

Relief from CRZ Clearances

One of the key amendments clarifies that small-scale aquaculture farmers are no longer required to obtain Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) clearances from multiple agencies. This simplification of the regulatory process is expected to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for these farmers, providing them with greater ease of doing business.

Expansion of Aquaculture Units

The amendments also include specific exemptions for the establishment of critical aquaculture units such as hatcheries, broodstock multiplication centers (BMC), and nucleus breeding centers (NBC) within the No Development Zone (NDZ) of CRZs. This NDZ extends 200 meters from the high tide line and is crucial for maintaining coastal ecosystems. These units can only be set up in areas with direct access to seawater. The government’s intention is to actively facilitate the establishment of such units as part of its strategy to produce genetically improved and disease-free stocks for coastal aquacultur

Diversification of Coastal Aquaculture

Recognizing the changing landscape of coastal aquaculture, the amendments acknowledge that the sector has evolved beyond traditional shrimp farming. They now encompass more environmentally friendly practices, including cage culture, seaweed culture, bi-valve culture, marine ornamental fish culture, and pearl oyster culture. These practices can be conducted in coastal areas, often falling within CRZs. Importantly, they offer substantial revenue potential and represent an opportunity to create employment, particularly among coastal fishing communities, including women.

Reformed Penalties

In an effort to make the regulatory framework more balanced and responsive, the amendments replace the previous provision of imprisonment of up to three years for conducting coastal aquaculture without proper registration with civil penalties. This change aligns penalties with non-criminal civil transgressions, ensuring that regulatory violations are met with proportionate consequences.

Comprehensive Coverage

The Amendment Bill broadens the definition of “coastal aquaculture” to encompass all related activities comprehensively. This inclusive approach ensures that no aspect of coastal aquaculture is left outside the purview of the Act, guaranteeing that all operations adhere to environmentally responsible practices.

Economic Impact

The CAA Act of 2005, in conjunction with these amendments, has played a pivotal role in promoting the rapid and sustainable development of environmentally friendly coastal aquaculture in India’s coastal states and territories. This growth has led to the creation of millions of jobs, self-employment opportunities, increased incomes for aquafarmers, and the flourishing of businesses and entrepreneurship in the aquaculture sector.

Shrimp Production Growth

India has experienced a remarkable surge in shrimp production over the past nine years, with production increasing by a staggering 267% from 322,000 tonnes in 2013-14 to a record 1.184 million tonnes in 2022-23 (provisional figures). The value of shrimp exports has also more than doubled during this period, registering a 123% increase from 19,368 crore Indian rupees in 2013-14 to Rs 43,135 crore in 2022-23. Notably, the United States stands as the largest importer of Indian shrimp. States such as Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu have made substantial contributions to this growth in coastal aquaculture shrimp production and export.

In conclusion, these legislative amendments in India are poised to strengthen the coastal aquaculture sector, support small farmers, foster sustainable practices, and stimulate economic growth while preserving the coastal environment and safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities. This represents a significant milestone in India’s journey towards a more vibrant and sustainable coastal aquaculture industry.

To know about the rule changes, click here