POST-HARVEST LOSS AND BYCATCH FROM MARINE FISHERIES

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India, in partnership with the National Productivity Council, assessed post‑harvest losses in Karnataka’s marine fisheries for 2023‑24, finding losses between 6.21 % and 10.13 %. State reports, based on ICAR‑CIFT studies, place loss at around 6 % and by‑catch at 20‑40 % depending on gear. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the DoF approved projects worth ₹ 1,053.60 crore for cold‑chain infrastructure—including 126 ice plants, 1,065 refrigerated transport units, live‑fish vending centres, and fish markets—and modernisation of Mangaluru, Gangolli and Malpe fishing harbours (totaling ₹ 72.17 crore). Karnataka fishermen are encouraged to use square‑mesh cod‑end nets and Turtle Excluder Devices to promote sustainable fisheries.