India Boosts Seaweed Farming for Blue Economy Growth

Why in News ?

India is promoting seaweed cultivation under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana to increase production to 1.12 million tonnes in five years. The move aims to tap into the $5.6 billion global seaweed market and enhance sustainable aquaculture.

India Boosts Seaweed Farming for Blue Economy Growth

Nutritional and Medicinal Power of Seaweeds:

  • Seaweeds are nutrient-dense marine algae found in oceans and seas.
  • Contain 54 essential nutrients including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and trace elements.
  • Recognized as superfoods, beneficial in managing diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and enhancing immunity.
  • Their health-promoting properties are drawing global attention.

India’s Seaweed Push and Global Opportunity

  • Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), India is promoting seaweed cultivation.
  • Target set to boost production to 12 million tonnes in five years.
  • Aims to tap into the $5.6 billion global seaweed market, enhancing India’s role in sustainable aquaculture.
  • Seaweed farming offers economic upliftment for coastal communities and aligns with the government’s Blue Economy vision.

Environmental Benefits and Future Potential

  • Seaweeds require no land, freshwater, or fertilizers, making them eco-friendly.
  • They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, aiding climate change mitigation.
  • Species like giant kelp create underwater forests, supporting marine biodiversity.
  • Applications span food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels, offering multi-sectoral economic opportunities.
  • With increasing interest and government backing, India’s coastline may soon become a hub of sustainable marine farming.

This initiative signals a transformative step in India’s Blue-Green economic growth, leveraging seaweed’s vast untapped potential.