The Union Government notified the rules for ‘Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone(EEZ)’ to give priority to fishermen cooperative societies and fish farmer producer organisations (FFPOs)
Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules, 2025:
The rules ban foreign fishing vessels from operating in India’s EEZ under any arrangement, thereby reserving deep‑sea fishing access for Indian fishermen/cooperatives.
Priority access is being given to local fishermen’s cooperatives and Fish‑Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs) to undertake deep‑sea fishing operations, with support via training, credit, and technological upgradation.
To promote sustainability and traceability: harmful fishing practices (like LED light fishing, pair trawling, bull trawling) are banned; digital “Access Pass” for mechanised vessels introduced; catches from EEZ beyond contiguous zone recognised as “Indian origin” for customs purposes.
About Deep Sea Fishing:
Deep sea fishing (also called offshore fishing or oceanic fishing) is the practice of catching fish and other seafood from the open ocean, generally at depths of 200 meters or more, beyond the continental shelf.
Targets high-value species like tuna, marlin, swordfish, mackerel, and deep-water prawns.
Legal & Regulatory Framework
oGoverned by Marine Fishing Regulation Acts of coastal states.
oExclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India: Up to 200 nautical miles; deep sea fishing primarily occurs here.
Licensing: Required for mechanized vessels; adherence to safety and environmental norms mandatory.
International law: Fishing in high seas regulated under UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs).
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
