The Government of India has announced new deep-sea fishing rules for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), covering over 23 lakh sq. km of ocean territory. Notified on November 4, 2025, the policy bans foreign vessels, prioritises local fishers, and introduces digital Access Passes to regulate and modernise marine operations. The move supports sustainable fishing, export growth, and marine biodiversity protection.
Government Notifies New EEZ Fishing Rules to Empower Local Fishers and Boost Marine Exports
Prioritising Indian Fishers and Cooperatives
The new policy gives priority to:
- Fishermen Cooperative Societies
- Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs)
These groups can now undertake deep-sea fishing using modern vessels, giving small-scale fishers access to offshore resources such as tuna and other high-value species.
Foreign fishing vessels are completely banned from India’s EEZ to safeguard local livelihoods and sovereignty over marine resources.
Digital Permits via ReALCraft Portal
All mechanised and large-sized vessels must obtain a free digital Access Pass through the ReALCraft portal.
Small and traditional boats are exempted.
ReALCraft Benefits:
- Minimal paperwork
- Real-time tracking of vessels
- Integration with MPEDA (Marine Products Export Development Authority) and EIC (Export Inspection Council) for:
- Fish Catch Certificates
- Health Certificates (essential for export compliance)
As of now, 2.38 lakh vessels are registered under ReALCraft, with 64,187 mechanised boats awaiting access passes.
Environmental Protections and Fishing Bans
The new rules strengthen ecological safeguards to ensure sustainable marine use.
🚫 Banned Fishing Practices:
- LED light fishing
- Pair trawling
- Bull trawling
Additionally, minimum size norms will prevent the capture of juvenile fish. States will also prepare Fisheries Management Plans in coordination with the Centre to maintain biodiversity and stock balance.
Boost to Exports and Traceability
By linking fishing operations to digital tracking and certification systems, India can now:
- Meet global eco-labelling and hygiene standards
- Ensure traceability demanded by international seafood markets
- Boost marine exports (currently worth ₹60,000 crore annually)
Fish caught within the EEZ but beyond the contiguous zone will now be treated as “Indian origin”, simplifying customs and export procedures.
Financial & Technical Support
To help fishers adapt to new technologies, the government will provide:
- Credit and subsidies through Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Fisheries Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
- Support for branding, value addition, and global marketing
These measures aim to make India a global leader in sustainable seafood exports.
Safety & Surveillance Measures
To ensure maritime safety and security, the rules include:
- Mandatory transponders on all deep-sea vessels
- QR-coded Aadhaar/Fisher ID cards for onboard verification
- Integration with Nabhmitra App for real-time navigation and emergency alerts
- Enhanced coordination with the Indian Coast Guard and Navy for monitoring EEZ activities
Exam-Oriented Notes
- Rules notified: November 4, 2025
- Applicable zone: India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), 23 lakh sq. km
- Priority to: Indian cooperatives and FFPOs
- Foreign vessels banned from Indian EEZ operations
- Digital permits via ReALCraft portal
- Environmental bans: LED, pair, and bull trawling
- Support through: PMMSY and FIDF schemes
- Integration for export certification: MPEDA & EIC
- Safety via transponders and Nabhmitra App
Question & Answer
Q1. When were India’s new deep-sea fishing rules notified?
(a) November 2, 2024
(b) November 4, 2025
(c) October 30, 2025
(d) December 1, 2025
Answer: November 4, 2025
Q2. What is the total area covered under India’s EEZ for deep-sea fishing?
(a) 10 lakh sq. km
(b) 15 lakh sq. km
(c) 23 lakh sq. km
(d) 30 lakh sq. km
Answer: 23 lakh sq. km
Q3. Which platform is used to issue digital Access Passes for fishing vessels?
(a) Nabhmitra Portal
(b) ReALCraft Portal
(c) e-Matsya Portal
(d) OceanData Portal
Answer: ReALCraft Portal
Q4. Which fishing practices are banned under the new rules?
(a) LED light fishing, pair trawling, bull trawling
(b) Hook fishing, drift netting, longline fishing
(c) Surface trolling, jigging, handline fishing
(d) Spear fishing, cast netting, purse seining
Answer: LED light fishing, pair trawling, bull trawling
Q5. Which schemes will support fishers under the new deep-sea fishing policy?
(a) PMMSY and FIDF
(b) PM-KISAN and PMEGP
(c) Blue Revolution and PMAY
(d) FAME India and SAGARMALA
Answer: PMMSY and FIDF
Q6. What is the purpose of integrating MPEDA and EIC with ReALCraft?
(a) To monitor coral reefs
(b) To issue export certification and health certificates
(c) To manage port logistics
(d) To train fishers in marketing
Answer: To issue export certification and health certificates
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