The fisheries sector occupies an important place in the socio-economic development
of India. It contributed nearly 1 per cent of India's gross domestic product (GDP)
in 2004-05 and nearly 5 per cent of the agricultural GDP. It is a source of cheap and
nutritious food, and is an important foreign exchange earner.3 Besides, it is considered
as a major source of livelihood for nearly 11 million people in the country, engaged fully
or partially, or in subsidiary activities pertaining to the sector. It is estimated that fisheries
sector alone can provide one million jobs in next five years.