The Government of India has announced the “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules, 2025.” The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying issue the rules that aim to make fishing within Indian maritime boundaries more regulated, responsible, and sustainable. The government is trying to protect ocean biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal fishermen through the new rules.
Go through the India’s evolving Blue Economy policies and understand the compliance requirements under the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules, 2025.
What is Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries?
Sustainable harnessing of fisheries is a practice of harvesting fish and other marine resources at a competitive rate. This practice ensures fish populations and their ecosystems remain healthy, diverse, and productive for current and future generations. The initiative ensures developing India’s Blue Economy, thereby connecting the country with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 14).
It is considered an essential step in bringing a balance between economic progress and social needs, with ocean conservation. It further ensures that ocean resources are not wasted through overexploitation, and future generations also benefit. Furthermore, sustainable fishing not only helps secure food for the future but also helps eradicate poverty and hunger among various groups.
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Background of Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules, 2025, have been framed under the “Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and Other Maritime Zones Act, 1976.” India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. Here, India has the right to explore and manage its marine resources.
Under the new rules, any Indian motorised fishing vessel within the EEZ must comply. It further aims to ensure integrated control, surveillance, and legal accountability in deep-sea fisheries. This step is also aligned with international standards, such as the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (1995) and United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
Importance and Objective of the Rules
With the implementation of the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules, 2025, India is strengthening its Blue Economy. The new rules of 2025 are of great significance for India’s marine and coastal ecosystem, thereby helping preserve economic production and marine conservation. The key objectives of the Code are as follows:
- Prevent excessive and illegal fishing (IUU Fishing)
- Encourage environmentally friendly and responsible fishing
- Protect marine biodiversity and habitats
- Creates a path for environmental clearance
- Create a fair, transparent administrative system for fishermen
- Align India’s policies with international sustainable fisheries management
- Ensure economic security and environmental stability for future generations
Key Provisions of Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules, 2025, include several vital measures for responsible, regulated fishing in Indian waters. These will help conserve fisheries resources, protect fishermen, and ensure sustainable fishing. The key provisions are explained below in simple terms:
1. Access Pass from ReALCraft
All mechanical or motorised fishing vessels above 24 meters in length will have to obtain an access pass from the ReALCraft portal before venturing into the sea. This pass is vessel-specific and non-transferable. Fishing in EEZ waters without a pass is completely prohibited. This ensures discipline and accountability in fishing.
2. Monitoring of Fishing Vessels
It is mandatory to install an approved tracking device on every vessel. The authorities can monitor the vessel’s location and activity in real time through this device. This plays an effective role in preventing illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing (IUU Fishing).
3. Inspection and Enforcement System
The authorities inspect the vessels, equipment, and documents at sea or in ports to strengthen legal accountability and control. If violations are detected, fines, suspensions, or pass cancellations may be imposed.
4. Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs)
The Centre and the State Governments jointly prepare Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs) to set the fishing seasons, quantitative limits, and conservation policies. This scientific approach ensures long-term sustainable management of fisheries resources.
5. Source of Fish Caught
All fish caught in Indian waters are considered Indian fish. When these fish are brought into Indian ports, no import duty is levied on them. This provision is commercially beneficial for fishermen and strengthens the domestic fish market.
6. Source and Health Certificates of Caught Fish
A catch certificate (proof of legality) and a health certificate (proof of food safety) are required for every fish consignment. It helps in maintaining transparency and international standards in export trade.
7. Mid-Sea Transhipment Control
Fish transfer at sea, or mid-sea transhipment, can be done with prior approval. All information has to be uploaded online. This will make it easier to identify unreported or illegal fishing.
8. Mandatory Catch Reporting
All vessels will have to upload information on the species, quantity, and location of their catch on the ReALCraft portal. This will enable data-based fisheries management.
9. Compliance with RFMO
Indian vessels will have to comply with the guidelines of Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), particularly for migratory species such as tuna.
10. Right to Appeal
The affected party can appeal against any order or penalty within 30 days. This system ensures fairness, transparency, and accountability. It makes fisheries administration more credible.
Process for Obtaining and Renewing Access Pass
An access pass is mandatory for every motorised or mechanical vessel fishing in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The process is entirely online and is designed to be transparent and straightforward.
Step 1: File Application Form I: The vessel owner must file an online Application Form I via the ReALCraft portal. The application form must be submitted along with the vessel’s registration, ownership, and safety documents.
Step 2: Physical Verification: A Verifying Officer conducts a physical verification to check the application and documents within 2 weeks at the Port of Registry.
Step 3: Approval or Rejection: The authority decides to approve or reject the application within 5 to 10 working days.
Step 4: Issuance of Pass: After approval, an electronic pass is issued in accordance with Form II. It has to be visibly displayed on the vessel.
Step 5: Validity and Renewal: The access pass is valid for three years. A renewal application must be submitted at least 30 days before the expiry date.
Step 6: Suspension or Cancellation: The pass can be suspended or cancelled for providing false information or violating rules. Before renewal, the vessel’s safety and environmental standards are verified.
Prohibited and Harmful Fishing Methods under EEZ Rules
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone Rules, 2025, strictly prohibit any fishing activity or method that harms the marine ecosystem. Have a look at some of the prohibited methods:
- Use of explosives, poisons, or harmful chemicals for capturing fish
- Pair trawling or bull trawling, which harms many marine life species
- Use of LED lights or light-attracting devices for overfishing
- Catching juvenile or undersized fish (below a specified minimum legal size)
- Fishing in restricted or closed areas, or during officially declared ban periods
- Operating without a valid Access Pass or violating its conditions
- Engaging in Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing activities
By following these rules, fisheries contribute to conserving the marine environment and increasing the number of fish naturally. This will sustain the livelihoods of fishermen and protect marine resources for the future.
Violations & Punishments Under Sustainable Fisheries Rules 2025
The authority imposes strict penalties for any violation of the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025. All enforcement and penalty records will be maintained on the ReALCRaft portal to ensure transparency and accountability. Have a look at the penalties determined by the Adjudicating Officers:
- Vessels Below 15 Meters: Maximum fine of ₹5,000; up to ₹15,000 for repeat offences.
- 15–24 Meter Vessels: Maximum fine of ₹10,000; up to ₹25,000 for repeat offenses.
- Vessels Over 24 Meters: Maximum fine of ₹30,000; up to ₹50,000 for repeat offences.
- High Sea Vessels (LOA Holders): Forfeiture of Bank Guarantee (partial or full); Forfeiture of Bank Guarantee and LOA cancellation for repeat offences.
- Illegal Fishing: Suspension or revocation of access pass.
Impact on Livelihoods and Blue Economy Growth
The new Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025 play a significant role in protecting the livelihoods of fishermen and protecting marine resources. It further sets fishing limits to prevent overfishing and maintain sustainable fishing, thereby enabling future generations to depend on the sea for their livelihood.
It has been suggested that we use environmentally friendly technologies to reduce marine pollution and maintain the quality of fish. So, India’s marine products can be exported more easily, and new opportunities can be created in the domestic economy. However, the Rules of 2025 further ensure increasing employment opportunities in the coastal areas, especially in the fish processing and export sectors. It will move India forward as a responsible maritime nation and help in fulfilling the goals of the Blue Economy Vision 2047.
Conclusion
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries EEZ Rules 2025 has initiated a historic change in India’s maritime governance. It brings science, technology, and policy-based governance together to open up new horizons in marine conservation. The implementation of the new rules plays a significant role in empowering fishermen and traders. Complying with the new rules can sometimes seem complicated. The process becomes easier with the right advice.
Looking to stay compliant with India’s new Sustainable Fisheries Rules 2025? Partner with Corpbiz’s experienced legal advisors who help you understand the new EEZ guidelines, secure necessary permits, and ensure your marine operations meet every regulatory standard.
FAQs on Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025
What are the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone Rules 2025?
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules, 2025, regulate fishing in the Indian maritime territory. It further aims to conserve marine resources and maintain sustainable fish stocks. It has clear rules regarding vessel permits, monitoring, prohibition procedures, and penalties. It also protects fishermen and strengthens the country’s maritime administration.
Who needs to get an access pass to fish in the EEZ?
Any motorised or mechanical vessel over 24 meters in length filing an application through the ReALCraft portal needs to get an access pass for fishing in the EEZ. However, the pass is issued after verifying the vessel's information, safety, and environmental standards. This pass is for a specific ship and cannot be used in the name of another.
How are vessels monitored under this rule?
Every vessel has to be fitted with an approved tracking device. It sends information about the vessel's location and activities directly to the authorities. This helps to detect illegal or unauthorised fishing. This system ensures both transparency and the safety of fishing.
Which fishing methods are banned under this rule?
Many harmful methods are completely banned under this rule. It includes explosives, toxic chemicals, LED lights, pair trawling, and small-scale fishing. Fishing in prohibited areas or during certain times is an offence. These restrictions help protect marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
How are fines and penalties regulated under this rule?
Under the Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries Rules 2025, the fines and penalties are determined based on the vessel size and the type of offence. Fines for violating the EEZ Rules, 2025, range from ₹5,000 to ₹1,50,000, determined through an adjudication process. Access passes can be suspended or cancelled for serious offences. All information is stored on the ReALCraft portal. This makes the administration transparent and accountable.
How is the access pass renewal process done?
A renewal application must be submitted 30 days before the pass's expiry. The application can be made on the ReALCraft portal. Officials check the vessel's condition, safety, and previous record. If there is no violation, renewal is approved. The reason is given when it needs to be cancelled, and fishing has to be stopped if not renewed.
How do these rules help the blue economy?
The Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Rules, 2025, encourage sustainable fishing, prevent wastage of resources, increase the quality of fish and facilitate exports. It also enhances employment in coastal areas, thereby playing a significant role in implementing India's Blue Economy Vision 2047. The rules maintain the balance between the economy and the environment.
Can fish caught under these rules be imported?
Fish caught in Indian waters are considered to be of Indian origin. Therefore, no import duty is required when they are brought to Indian ports. This increases the domestic fish trade. The position of Indian seafood products in the international market has also become stronger.
How can disputes or penalties be appealed under these rules?
Anyone can object to any decision or penalty. An appeal has to be filed with the appellate authority within 30 days for this. They review all the information and evidence and make a decision. This process is entirely transparent and fair.
How do these rules align with international standards?
The 2025 rule aligns with the policies of international organisations and RFMOs. In this, India maintains global standards for sustainable fishing. It strengthens India's image as a responsible maritime nation. So, India's credibility in the international market also increases.
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