Industry Odisha Bureau, May 21: To boost Odisha’s blue economy, the State Government has decided to bring Odisha Marine Fishing (Prohibition and Regulation) Bill, 2026 aimed at modernising the marine fisheries sector, boosting seafood exports and strengthening coastal livelihoods.
The State Cabinet has taken this decision while approving the proposal to repeal the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982.
The government expects the legislation to emerge as a catalyst for expansion of Odisha’s marine fisheries sector and seafood exports, with an ambitious target of achieving Rs 25,000 crore worth seafood exports by 2036.
The new Bill seeks to create a modern, inclusive and technology-driven legal framework for marine fisheries governance in the State. The existing 1982 law had become outdated and inadequate to address emerging challenges such as marine resource conservation, fishermen’s safety, coastal security, technological advancements and prevention of unauthorised entry of foreign fishing vessels.
The new legislation significantly expands the scope of marine fisheries regulation by incorporating deep-sea fishing activities and promotion of mariculture ventures such as marine cage culture, seaweed farming and deployment of artificial reefs for rejuvenation of territorial waters, officials said.
The Bill also lays emphasis on development of integrated modern infrastructure, including upgradation and scientific management of fishing harbours and fish landing centres along Odisha’s coastline.
The State Government expects the reforms to generate employment opportunities and improve livelihood support for coastal communities. Giving priority to safety and coastal security, the proposed legislation mandates use of advanced communication and monitoring systems such as transponders, Very High Frequency (VHF) radios and Vessel Tracking and Monitoring Systems (VTMS) in fishing vessels.
The Bill also proposes biometric or QR-coded Aadhaar-based identification for fishermen along with enhanced insurance coverage to strengthen fishermen’s security and improve coastal surveillance mechanisms.
To curb Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, the legislation introduces stricter provisions for licensing of fishing vessels, regulation of fishing gear and prohibition of destructive fishing practices.
It also seeks to protect the interests of traditional fishermen while ensuring sustainable conservation and management of marine resources.
The officials said the proposed law is strategically aligned with Odisha’s “Viksit Odisha Vision 2036- 2047” and the State’s broader blue economy initiatives, including the deep-sea fishing mission.
The new legislation will ensure sustainable fisheries resource development coupled with immense economic benefits while protecting the livelihood and safety of fishermen and conserving the marine ecosystem.
