The central government will soon introduce an onboard electronic observer (e-observer) system to monitor and record marine fish catch remotely, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, announced at a global workshop on species identification hosted by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and the Fishery Survey of India (FSI).
Developed by the FSI under the Fisheries Ministry, the e-observer aims to provide accurate, science-backed data on tuna and tuna-like fish for stock assessment and sustainable management. He said that credible, technology-driven data would strengthen India’s defence against non-tariff barriers, secure access to international markets, and ensure fair treatment for Indian fishers and exporters.
Highlighting the need for long-term sustainability, he affirmed India’s commitment to regional and international cooperation in data collection for migratory species such as tunas and pelagic sharks.
CMFRI Director Dr. Grinson George called for a revision of the global tuna quota system to provide fair allocations to developing nations, while also stressing the importance of cold chain infrastructure to reduce spoilage and boost the competitiveness of Indian tuna exports. Fisheries experts and officials from 12 nations, including Japan, France, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and South Africa, as well as representatives from 18 Indian coastal states, attended the five-day workshop.