New Delhi, Mar 30: India’s fisheries sector contributes significantly to the country’s food security, serving as the backbone of livelihoods across coastal, inland, and rural communities. This traditionally-driven sector is now attracting a start-up ecosystem while driven by innovation and entrepreneurial talent.
Since 2015, the authorities have invested INR 39,272 crore through various initiatives and schemes to promote sustainable growth in Fisheries and Aquaculture. This expansion has led to the emergence of over 300 fisheries start-ups leveraging technologies such as blockchain, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to enhance productivity, ensure traceability, and improve value chain efficiencies.
To address sectoral challenges, key problem areas have been identified, including development of nutritious and affordable aquaculture feeds from sustainable sources, AI-powered precision farming, resilient and inclusive seafood supply chains, waste minimization, and integration of traditional knowledge with modern technology.
With the reliance of technology infusion, the fisheries start-up landscape is getting transformed. By increasing its efficiency, sustainability, and market access. Start-ups are integrating IoT solutions enabling water-quality monitoring, pond-health management, and real-time analytics, while AI and ML (machine learning) tools support disease prediction, biomass estimation, feed optimization, and decision-making.
Besides the other influx of innovations such as Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), biofloc technology, and sensor-based farm management systems are supporting high-density and resource-efficient farming.
Notably at the post-harvest stage, the government of India is making efforts to strengthen cold-chain logistics, solar-powered chilling units, smart ice production, and AI-based quality grading systems to reduce spoilage and maintain export standards. Emerging areas such as seaweed farming technologies, genetic improvement tools, low-impact fishing gear, and satellite-based advisory systems are further expanding the innovation landscape.
Not to mention the drone technology for how it is now gaining traction for pond mapping, water-quality assessment, biomass estimation, and early detection of environmental issues. A pilot project has been commissioned to develop drone-based live fish transport, with a specialised drone designed to carry up to 100 kg over short distances, improving efficiency in aquaculture logistics.
Promoting innovation and accepting modernity, the Department of Fisheries has organised Fisheries Startup Conclaves, providing a platform for collaboration and showcasing solutions. The Fisheries Startup Grand Challenge was launched to identify and support start-ups addressing productivity, sustainability, and market access. Selected start-ups receive grants, mentorship, and incubation support, along with pilot implementation opportunities and industry linkages. A second edition has been introduced to further strengthen the ecosystem.
Furthermore, a knowledge-building lecture series was also undertaken by the Department of Fisheries titled Matsya Manthan, which has successfully initiated a dialogue among experts, researchers, and practitioners on emerging technologies and sustainable practices. At least eleven sessions reportedly have been conducted to support evidence-based policy and innovation. Five fisheries business incubation centres have also been established to provide mentorship and training for start-ups, supporting the development of viable business models.
These initiatives are collectively bringing a dynamic and future-ready fisheries start-up ecosystem, with innovation, technology, and policy support working together to drive sustainable growth in the sector.
