Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 14 November 2025
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands made a notable impact at World Aquaculture India 2025, held from 10th to 13th November at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. The national event brought together fish farmers, policymakers, researchers, and industry experts to discuss innovations, sustainable practices, and the future of India’s blue economy.
The Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration, actively participated in the Fish Farmers Conclave, a key component of the summit, showcasing the Islands’ growing contribution to the country’s aquaculture sector. Five progressive fish farmers from the Islands attended the conclave, reflecting the Administration’s commitment to promoting community-led fisheries development.
A moment of pride for the Islands came when Mr. D. Potaiah, a progressive fish farmer from Mannarghat, was felicitated by Mr. Vakiti Srihari, Hon’ble Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries, Government of Telangana. Recognized for his outstanding contribution to the Coastal Aquaculture sector of the Islands, Mr. Potaiah was honoured for his pioneering work in sustainable shrimp farming, further strengthening the region’s reputation in the aquaculture arena.
In another key highlight, Ms. Jagtap Kalyani Rajendra, Director of Fisheries, A&N Administration, delivered a well-received presentation during a parallel session organized by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) on “Marine Product Export Potential of A&N Islands.” She detailed the vast export opportunities linked to the Islands’ rich Tuna resources, stressing value addition, sustainable harvesting, mariculture prospects, and market diversification. The session also included a brainstorming discussion chaired by Mr. D.V. Swamy, IAS, Chairman, MPEDA, focused on advancing the proposed Tuna Cluster initiative and strengthening the Tuna value chain.
The Islands’ dynamic participation and recognition at the event underscore the Administration’s continued efforts to promote innovation, empower fish farmers, and position the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a key contributor to India’s growing blue economy.
