Source: Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, 2023
Highlights of the Bill
The Bill amends the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, 2005. The Act defines coastal aquaculture as farming, under controlled conditions, of: (i) shrimp, (ii) prawn, (iii) fish or (iv) any other aquatic life in saline or brackish water. The Bill expands the scope of coastal aquaculture to include allied activities such as hatcheries and nucleus breeding centres.
Key Issues and Analysis
The mandate of the Fisheries Ministry to promote coastal aquaculture may lead it to prioritise industry growth over environmental protection.
The CAG noted that the Coastal Aquaculture Authority lacks capacity to carry out existing functions under the Act. The Bill adds more functions.
