Why in news?
The Government of India recently notified rules for the sustainable harnessing of fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone. A key part of these rules is the fully digital ReALCRaft portal, which issues free access passes for mechanised fishing vessels. This portal aims to balance the livelihoods of traditional fishers with environmental protection and traceability requirements.
Background
The ReALCRaft portal stands for Registration and Licensing of Crafts. It was initially designed to provide a single window for registering fishing boats and issuing licences. The new EEZ rules expand its use to deep‑sea fisheries, making the portal central to maritime governance. By giving mechanised vessels a digital Access Pass, authorities can monitor their activities, prevent illegal fishing and ensure that catches from Indian waters are properly documented.
Key features of the portal
- Paperless access passes: Mechanised and large motorised vessels must obtain a free Access Pass through the portal before venturing into the EEZ. The pass records the vessel’s identity, owner, crew and fishing area.
- Integration with tracking systems: Each pass is linked to a vessel monitoring device supplied by the Indian Space Research Organisation, allowing real‑time tracking and communication with the coast guard in case of emergencies.
- Support for cooperatives: Fishermen cooperatives and Fish Farmer Producer Organisations receive priority when applying for passes, encouraging community ownership of deep‑sea fishing and reducing dependence on middlemen.
- Traceability and certification: The portal helps exporters demonstrate that their catch comes from legal and sustainable sources, a requirement for accessing premium markets abroad.
- Capacity building: Alongside the portal, the government offers training programmes, affordable credit and infrastructure support to help small‑scale fishers upgrade their equipment and adopt sustainable practices.
Significance
- Promoting sustainable fishing: By controlling the number and size of vessels in the EEZ and discouraging harmful practices like LED light fishing, the rules aim to conserve fish stocks for future generations.
- Empowering local communities: Fishermen cooperatives gain a stronger role in managing resources, and small‑scale operators are shielded from industrial fleets.
- Boosting exports: Compliance with international standards on traceability and conservation will enhance India’s reputation and allow exporters to tap into high‑value markets.
- Transparency: An online system reduces bureaucratic delays, curbs corruption and makes fisheries governance more accountable.
Conclusion
The ReALCRaft portal illustrates how digital tools can modernise traditional sectors like fisheries. By combining community empowerment with sustainability, the new EEZ rules could transform India’s marine economy while protecting the ocean environment.
Source: Press Information Bureau
