India’s Coastal Crisis: How Light Fishing Threatens Marine Life and Traditional Livelihoods

India's coastline is facing a severe threat from illegal light fishing, which disrupts marine ecosystems and endangers traditional fishing communities. This issue is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, which covers environmental conservation and biodiversity. Last Updated: 2025-04-01

Key Facts About Light Fishing

• Light fishing uses artificial lights to attract fish, making them easier to catch.
• This method is prohibited under the National Policy on Marine Fisheries.
• It leads to indiscriminate capture of fish, including juveniles.
• Light fishing degrades marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs.
• Squid populations, vital to the marine food web, are threatened.
• Traditional fishers face competition from mechanized trawlers using lights.
• States like Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Kerala are particularly affected.
• Weak enforcement of regulations allows light fishing to persist.

India's Coastal Ecosystem and Economic Impact

The macro-level significance of light fishing lies in its threat to India's coastal ecosystems and traditional livelihoods. India's coastline supports a diverse range of marine life, crucial for ecological balance and economic sustenance. The degradation of these ecosystems affects India's strategic goals of sustainable development and food security. With over 4 million people dependent on fishing, the economic impact is substantial. International comparisons show that countries like Japan and Italy have successfully implemented stricter regulations to protect their marine resources.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• National Policy on Marine Fisheries: Prohibits light fishing to protect marine biodiversity.
• Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification: Aims to protect coastal ecosystems and traditional livelihoods.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography - Impact on coastal regions and communities.
• GS Paper 2: Governance - Policy implementation and enforcement issues.
• GS Paper 3: Environment - Conservation of marine ecosystems.
• Prelims: Questions on definitions, policies, and affected states.
• Mains: Analytical themes on sustainable fishing practices and policy enforcement.
• Essay Paper: Topics on environmental conservation and sustainable development.

FAQ Section

• What is light fishing?
  Light fishing involves using artificial lights to attract fish, making them easier to catch. This practice is banned under the National Policy on Marine Fisheries.
• Why is light fishing important?
  Light fishing is significant because it threatens marine ecosystems and traditional fishing livelihoods, leading to ecological imbalance and economic challenges.
• What are the key features of light fishing?
  Key features include the use of artificial lights, indiscriminate capture of fish, and its prohibition under national policies. It poses a threat to coral reefs and squid populations.