Do Women Represent Nearly Half of India’s Small Scale Fisheries Workforce?

Chennai, Sep 19 (NationPress) Women make up almost 50% of India’s small-scale fisheries (SSF) workforce, significantly contributing to the sustenance of millions and the well-being of both coastal and inland communities, as highlighted in a recent global study shared during a regional fisheries meeting here on Friday.

The research, a collaborative effort by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, indicates that approximately 4.8 million women are involved in small-scale fisheries in India, representing 40% of the sector's workforce.

Their roles span the entire value chain, with 27% engaged in pre-harvest tasks like net-making and boat operation, 18% participating in harvesting, and a remarkable 55% involved in post-harvest activities such as handling, processing, and marketing.

Despite these vital contributions, experts note that women’s roles in fisheries often remain undervalued in policy and governance frameworks.

The report estimates that India’s small-scale fisheries generate $2.3 billion each year from initial sales of catch, with women prominently leading in processing and marketing.

Beyond economic factors, women are crucial for nutrition security.

The study suggests that SSF landings could provide 20% of the recommended dietary intake of six essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, iron, and zinc for nearly 79 million people in India.

The findings were presented at a three-day regional meeting of Bay of Bengal rim countries, co-organized by FAO and the Bay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organisation (BOBP-IGO).

This meeting underscored the preparation of National Plans of Action (NPOA) for small-scale fisheries, with a focus on amplifying the visibility and empowerment of women in the industry.

While presenting India’s country report, Deputy Fisheries Commissioner Sanjay Pandey noted that inland fisheries are on the rise, whereas marine fish production has plateaued.

He flagged several challenges, including habitat loss, pollution, and declining fish catches.

To aid SSF communities, the government has launched various initiatives, including 117 modern fishing harbours and landing sites, 937 artificial reefs, and 100 climate-smart coastal fishing villages.

Social safety nets now encompass around 600,000 families, according to India’s status report.

Experts at the conclave emphasized that recognizing women’s contributions and enhancing their involvement in fisheries governance are essential to maintaining the sector’s social, economic, and nutritional benefits.