Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India:
The Centre issued the ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India’ to support the import of high-quality seed materials or germplasm, aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.
Guidelines:
- Establishes a regulatory framework with clear guidelines for live seaweed import into India, covering quarantine, risk assessment, and post-import monitoring to prevent pests, diseases, and biosecurity risks.
- India’s seaweed industry faces challenges from limited seed availability and quality issues, especially in the widely farmed Kappaphycus species.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):
- The PMMSY targets raising India’s seaweed production to over 1.12 million tonnes by 2025, with major initiatives such as a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu to bolster seaweed farming.
- The guidelines encourage environmentally sustainable and economically beneficial seaweed cultivation.
- Introducing new strains drives research and development, boosting the production of diverse seaweed species including red, brown, and green algae.
