Marine Mammal Conservation: A Key Factor in India's Seafood Exports

KOCHI, 16 October 2023: In a workshop held at the 16th Agricultural Science Congress (ASC) in Kochi, it was underscored that the conservation of marine mammals is of paramount importance for India's seafood export industry.

The reason? India must align with the stringent regulations of the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), which expressly prohibits the deliberate killing of marine mammals in commercial fisheries. This act has far-reaching consequences, and here's why it matters.

India's Seafood Export Dependency on the US

India's seafood export industry heavily relies on the United States as a major importer. In terms of value, the US accounts for a staggering 33% of India's total seafood exports. The significance of this trade relationship cannot be overstated. However, the MMPA poses a critical challenge. If India does not adhere to the MMPA, its seafood exports to the US could be severely impacted. The consequences of non-compliance would ripple through the economy, affecting the livelihoods of fishing communities.

Voices from the Industry

P. Anilkumar, the Joint Director of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) in Kochi, emphasized the potential risks involved. He underlined the fact that India's seafood exports, and consequently, the livelihoods of its fishermen communities, are intricately tied to adherence to the MMPA.

The Complex Task of Researching Marine Mammals

Dr. A. Gopalakrishnan, Director of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), shed light on the complexities of researching marine mammals in India. This research relies on diverse sources, including stranding data, offshore and onshore surveys, and bycatch estimates.

Collaboration: The Key to Conservation

According to Dr. E. Vivekanandan, research on marine mammals is a multifaceted and challenging endeavor. It requires the collective efforts of biologists, veterinarians, environmentalists, and conservationists. The primary focus of this research in India revolves around estimating the status of marine mammal stocks, understanding the correlation between environmental factors and their abundance, assessing the impacts of climate change, and formulating effective conservation measures.

The Workshop's Emphasis

The workshop at the ASC delved into the immense significance of marine mammal conservation for India's seafood export sector. It also addressed the myriad challenges and opportunities associated with researching these magnificent creatures. One resounding conclusion emerged - a collaborative approach is imperative for the successful conservation of marine mammals. This approach must encompass all stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, fishing communities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Key Takeaways

• Economic Impact: The workshop has underscored the direct economic impact of the MMPA on India's seafood exports, emphasizing the critical need for compliance.

• Research Challenges: Research on marine mammals is a multifaceted task, demanding the expertise and collaboration of experts from various fields.

• Environmental Focus: The focus of Indian research on marine mammals extends to understanding their ecological role, assessing the effects of climate change, and developing conservation strategies.

• Collaboration: In the world of marine mammal conservation, a united front that includes governmental bodies, research institutions, fishing communities, and NGOs is essential.

In conclusion, marine mammal conservation is not just a matter of compliance; it's a pivotal factor in ensuring the sustainability of India's seafood exports to the US. This workshop highlights the importance of a collective effort to safeguard these remarkable creatures and the livelihoods that depend on them.