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A major step has been taken to protect marine biodiversity and strengthen India's seafood exports under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
For the first time in Gujarat, the State Government will install Turtle Excluder Devices (TED) in fishermen's fishing nets, as per the release. Fisheries Minister Jitu Vaghani stated that under this initiative, 8,925 fishermen across the state will receive Turtle Excluder Devices (TED) free of cost with 100 per cent government assistance. The Rs 20.96 crore project will help protect marine biodiversity and create greater opportunities for Gujarat's seafood industry in global markets. In recent years, the United States has restricted imports of Wild-caught shrimp from India due to concerns about sea turtle safety during fishing. The use of TED will help reduce this risk and make it easier to obtain the international certifications required for exports. This is expected to boost Gujarat's shrimp exports to the United States and other global markets, increasing the income of fishermen and seafood exporters in the State, the release said. The Government of India has approved 8,925 TED units for Gujarat, the highest number approved for any state in the country. ICAR has developed the specialised TED model-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Kochi, in line with global standards set by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A Turtle Excluder Device (TED) is a special mechanism fitted into shrimp trawl nets. It allows shrimp to be retained while giving larger marine animals, such as sea turtles, a safe escape route through an exit flap. This device is expected to significantly reduce sea turtle deaths during fishing operations. This innovative initiative combines environmental conservation with the economic well-being of fishermen. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Fisheries Minister Jitu Vaghani, it will further strengthen Gujarat's Blue Economy and enhance its global standing. (ANI)
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