CMFRI to Set Up Panel on Shark Fishing and Fisher Livelihoods

Swift Summary

• The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has formed a special committee to scientifically study shark fishing and trade issues in India, which have arisen due to amendments to India’s wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
• The 2022 amendment added numerous shark and ray species under different schedules of the act, introducing strict regulations on their catch, trade, and export.
• Fishermen across India’s coastline have expressed unease as these protected species are frequently enough caught accidentally as by-catch during regular fishing activities.
• CMFRI Director grinson george stated at a workshop that the committee would provide science-based solutions focused on biological/ecological factors of protected species and socio-economic impacts on fisher livelihoods.
• CMFRI recently intervened in an incident in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district regarding thresher sharks, clarifying thay are listed under Schedule IV of the WPA. While aligned with CITES Appendix II for regulated international trade, their domestic fishing/trade remains permissible unless listed under Schedules I or II.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The formation of a scientific committee by CMFRI represents an effort toward balancing biodiversity conservation goals with the socioeconomic realities faced by Indian fishermen. With stringent regulations introduced through amendments to India’s Wild Life Act leading to operational challenges for coastal communities encountering protected species as by-catch, this initiative highlights an inclusive approach toward addressing multiple interests.

Key implications include better alignment between conservation policies and livelihood needs-an area critical for communities dependent on marine resources. Additionally, clarity provided around enforcement gaps (as seen in Tamil Nadu concerning thresher sharks) underscores the importance of consistent communication between officials and stakeholders. This may pave the way for informed policymaking that incorporates ecological sustainability while safeguarding traditional livelihoods reliant on marine ecosystems.

Read more: Published – september 19, 2025 / Source: CMFRI Release