The marine fish production in India has increased by six times in the last six decades. However, there are sustainability concerns such as
production approaching the potential yield, overcapacity in the fishing sector, open access to the fishery, degradation of habitats and trade-related issues. Climate change exacerbates this situation. Sea surface temperature has increased by 0.2 to 0.3 o C along the Indian coast in the last 45 years, and is projected to increase by 2.0 to 3.5 o C by 2099. The projected sea level rise is 30 cm in 50 years. During the southwest monsoon, the wind speed and coastal upwelling has strengthened, resulting in higher concentration of chlorophyll a along the Kerala coast.
The following measures could contribute to coping with climate change: (i) evaluating the adaptive capacity of important fish groups; (ii) identifying adaptive fishing and post-harvest practices to sustain fish production and quality; (iii) supporting energy efficient fishing craft and gear; (iv) cultivating aquatic algae, which have positive response to climate change for food and pharmaceutical purposes and for production of biodiesel; (v) increasing climate literacy among the fishing and farming communities; (vi) establishing Weather Watch Groups; (vii) establishing effective coast protection structures; and (vii) evolving decision support systems for fisheries.