The Maharashtra government has launched a large-scale investigation into 20,000 fishing ponds across the state to regulate commercial fishing and prevent illegal activities.
Minister for Fisheries Nitesh Rane has tasked his department with conducting a detailed audit to verify ownership details, lease agreements, and compliance with state laws. This decision comes amid growing concerns that many of these water bodies have been leased to private entities without proper regulation, leading to unfair business practices and environmental risks.
According to officials, a significant portion of these ponds was originally designated for community-based fishing to support local fishermen. However, recent reports suggest that several of them are now controlled by private contractors, often violating the terms of lease. This has created an imbalance in the fishing industry, with traditional fishermen struggling to compete against large-scale commercial operators. By ensuring proper oversight, the government aims to restore fairness in the sector and enhance revenue generation for the state.
Maharashtra ranks seventh in India in inland fish production, making fisheries a crucial part of its economy. However, experts warn that the mismanagement of fishing resources could lead to a decline in production, affecting supply chains and market prices. Additionally, the unregulated leasing of these ponds may cause environmental degradation, as unchecked fishing practices can harm aquatic ecosystems. Officials believe that a properly regulated system will help sustain fish production while ensuring economic benefits reach the right stakeholders.
The audit, which is set to be completed in the coming months, is expected to expose violations in commercial fishing practices, potentially leading to stricter policies and legal action against offenders. If large-scale discrepancies are found, the government may introduce new regulations to prevent unauthorised leasing and improve monitoring mechanisms.
Sources also told News18 that a team of officers from the department will soon be visiting Andhra Pradesh to study their inland fishing practices and explore potential improvements for Maharashtra’s fishing sector.