The Department of Fisheries, Andaman & Nicobar Administration has invited applications for the leasing of designated sea areas for fish culture activities, under the provisions of the A&N Marine Fishing Rules, 2004.
The opportunity is open to a wide range of stakeholders, including individual fishers, entrepreneurs, private firms, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Fisheries Cooperatives, Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), and Fish Farmers Producer Organizations/Companies (FFPOs/FFPCs).
Application forms, the list of designated sea areas and detailed terms and conditions are now available on the official Andaman Administration website (www.andaman.gov.in). The last date for submission of complete applications is July 15, 2025.
Applicants have the option to submit forms physically to the Directorate of Fisheries in Sri Vijaya Puram or to Zonal Fisheries Offices in South Andaman, North & Middle Andaman, and Nicobar. Digital submissions via email are also accepted at dirfish.and@nic.in.
The initiative is seen as part of a broader push to boost sustainable aquaculture in the region, which boasts extensive marine resources but continues to face economic challenges.
By facilitating legal access to sea zones, the administration aims to support local livelihoods while encouraging scientific and environmentally responsible fish farming practices.
Interested stakeholders are advised to ensure all supporting documentation is in place before submission. The move is expected to generate employment and increase local fish production, thereby reducing dependency on imports.
Successful applicants will likely undergo periodic compliance checks to ensure adherence to the guidelines under the Marine Fishing Rules.
The scheme could pave the way for a more structured and inclusive approach to marine aquaculture in the islands, aligning ecological sustainability with economic development.
