THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, JUNE 23, 2026
In a significant boost to India’s sustainable fisheries
sector and blue economy ambitions, Odisha is set to host the national launch of
the Letter of Authorization (LoA) for the sustainable utilization of deep-sea
fishery resources on July 9, 2026, at the Agriculture Education Hall of Odisha
University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Bhubaneswar.
The prestigious event will be attended by Vice President C.P.
Radhakrishnan as the chief guest, along with the Governor, Chief Minister,
Union Ministers, representatives from various states, senior national fisheries
officials, and more than 1,000 participants, including fishers, students,
researchers, and industry stakeholders.
Ahead of the landmark programme, a high-level preparatory
meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg was held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Tuesday to review arrangements and ensure
seamless coordination among departments. Officials were directed to put in
place comprehensive measures related to protocol, security, traffic management,
sanitation, uninterrupted power supply, medical assistance, and media outreach.
The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department has
been entrusted with coordinating guest hospitality, participation of fishers,
and overall event logistics. The Home Department and Police Commissionerate
will oversee VIP security arrangements, while the Bhubaneswar Municipal
Corporation will undertake extensive beautification and sanitation drives. The
Tourism Department has been tasked with transportation and accommodation
arrangements for guests. OUAT will provide the venue infrastructure, including
stage management, audio-visual facilities, digital backup systems, and student
volunteers.
The Letter of Authorization framework will empower
Indian-flagged fishing vessels to responsibly harvest deep-sea fishery
resources in accordance with national laws and international regulations.
Officials noted that the initiative is designed to enhance income opportunities
for fishers while ensuring the long-term conservation of marine ecosystems and
fish stocks.
The programme aligns closely with Odisha’s vision of strengthening the blue economy through sustainable growth in fisheries, coastal industries, and marine-based livelihoods. Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasized that hosting the national launch reflects Odisha’s growing leadership in sustainable fisheries development and underscores the country’s commitment to responsible deep-sea fishing practices.
With preparations gathering momentum, the event is expected to serve as a major platform for advancing sustainable marine resource management and showcasing Odisha’s role at the forefront of India’s evolving fisheries sector.
