In a virtual address during the 19th Working Party on Data Collection and Statistics of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), India’s Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Parshottam Rupala, emphasized the urgent need for advanced fishing nations to take accountability for the escalating damage to Indian Ocean tuna stocks. The minister highlighted the recent surge in industrial fishing by certain nations, expressing global concerns over its impact.
Rupala pointed out that while many nations permitted their extensive industrial fleets to exploit and deplete the Indian Ocean’s tuna wealth, India maintained smaller fleets utilizing passive gear, leaving minimal ecological footprints. He underscored the undeniable impact of advanced fishing nations on global tuna stocks, particularly in the high seas.
Recent research findings revealed that high seas fisheries, operating at their current scale, heavily depend on substantial government subsidies. Rupala stressed that the surge in industrial fishing poses challenges to the sustainability of Indian Ocean tropical tuna stocks, reiterating India’s stance that responsible parties must address the damage caused.
India, with one of the lowest tuna fishing capacities in the IOTC area, emphasized its commitment to sustainable fisheries management. Rupala highlighted the long-standing connection between the traditional and small-scale tuna fisheries sector and the ethos of sustainability. The minister urged for a balanced approach that considers the unique challenges faced by artisanal and small-scale fishing communities.
Addressing additional contributing factors, Rupala noted that pollution and climate change further jeopardize the state of Indian Ocean fishery resources. Emphasizing the economic significance of tunas and pelagic species, he highlighted their annual contribution of USD 41 billion and stressed the need for collaborative efforts to manage these resources effectively.
The minister expressed hope that the Scientific Committee’s recommendations from the IOTC meeting would establish a level playing field, addressing concerns and aspirations of traditional tuna fishers and their livelihoods. Rupala emphasized that the scientific advice provided by the committee would guide large industrial fleets in aligning with management targets, combating the effects of climate change, ensuring the sustenance of coastal communities, promoting the development of Indian Ocean coastal states, and protecting marine resources.
