World Fisheries Day 2021 was the fifth edition of the celebration.
- The first World Fisheries Day was observed on 21 November 2015. On this day, the International Fishermen’s Organization was opened in New Delhi.
World Fisheries Day is celebrated on 21st November every year to demonstrate solidarity with all fisherfolk, fish farmers and concerned stakeholders throughout the world.
The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India and National Fisheries Development, celebrated the ‘World Fisheries Day 2021’ at Rail Auditorium, Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
During the event, for the second time in Fisheries Sector the Government of India awarded best performing States and Districts for 2020-21.
- Balasore, Odisha was awarded as the Best Marine District in the country.
Award Winners:
Best Performing States for 2020-21:
- Best Marine State: Andhra Pradesh
- Best Inland State: Telangana
- Best Hilly and Northeastern State: Tripura
Best Performing District for 2020-21:
- Best Marine District: Balasore, Odisha
- Best Inland District: Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh
- Best Hilly and Northeastern District: Bongaigaon, Assam
Besides, the Government also felicitated to Best Quasi Government Organization/ Federation/ Corporation/ Board, Best Fish Farmer, best Hatchery, Best Fisheries Enterprises, Best Fisheries Co-operative societies/FPOs/SHGs, Best Individual Entrepreneurs, Best Innovation idea/Technology Infusion.
About World Fisheries Day:
It started in 1997 where “World Forum of Fish Harvesters & Fish Workers” met at New Delhi leading to formation of “World Fisheries Forum” with representatives from 18 countries and signed a declaration advocating for a global mandate of sustainable fishing practices and policies.
Aim:
The event aims to draw attention to overfishing, habitat destruction and other serious threats to the sustainability of our marine and freshwater resources.
The celebrations serve to focus on changing the way the world manages global fisheries to ensure sustainable stocks and healthy ecosystems.