Chennai, September 19 (IANS) women form about half of India’s small -scale fisheries (SSF), which plays an important role in feeding millions of people and maintaining coastal and inland communities, according to a new global study in a regional fisheries on Friday.
A study of a joint initiative by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has shown that 4.8 million women are engaged in small -scale fisheries in India, which is accounting for four of every ten workers in the region.
Their participation is spread over the price chain, 27 percent of pre-cutting activities such as net-making and boat operation, 18 percent in harvesting, and post-harvesting handling, processing and 55 percent in business.
Despite these contributions, experts said that women’s work in fisheries is often identified in policy and governance structure.
The report estimates that India generates $ 2.3 billion annually from the first sale of fisheries catch of India, in which the lead in processing and marketing with women.
Beyond economics, women play an important role in nutrition security.
According to the study, SSF landing can complete 20 percent of the recommended diet intake of six major nutrients including omega -3 fatty acids, vitamin A, iron and zinc for about 79 million people in India.
The findings were presented at the three-day regional meeting of the Gulf of Bengal Rim countries, jointly organized by the FAO and Bengal Program Inter-Government Organization (BOBP -IGO).
The meeting focused on preparing the action (NPOA) of national schemes for small -scale fisheries, which laid special emphasis on increasing the visibility and empowerment of women in the sector.
Presenting the report of the country of India, Deputy Fisheries Commissioner Sanjay Pandey said that inland fisheries are increasing, while marine has been stable in fish production.
He flagged off challenges like housing loss, pollution and decreasing fishing.
To support the SSF communities, the government has taken several initiatives, including 117 modern fishing ports and landing centers, 937 artificial reefs, and 100 climate-smart coastal fishing villages.
According to India’s status report, social security nets now cover around 600,000 families.
Experts at the Conclave stressed that it would be important to ensure the recognition of women’s contribution and strengthen their participation in fisheries rule to maintain the social, economic and nutritional impact of the region.
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