CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE

The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) was established in 2005 under the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, 2005, with a dedicated mission to oversee and guide coastal aquaculture activities nationwide. The Authority works diligently to ensure that these activities are conducted in a manner that protects and preserves the coastal ecosystem. To support this mission, the CAA has the authority to create regulations regarding constructing and operating aquaculture units in coastal areas. It plays a crucial role in registering aquaculture farms and hatcheries, conducting inspections to evaluate their environmental impact, and, when necessary, addressing any farms that may be causing pollution. Additionally, the CAA establishes and promotes standards for various inputs used in coastal aquaculture.

Through these collaborative efforts, the CAA has contributed significantly to enhancing India's environmental responsibility and the social acceptability of coastal aquaculture. This sector, particularly shrimp farming, plays a vital role in supplying protein-rich food and supports the economy by generating employment and contributing to foreign exchange through seafood exports. The CAA is committed to fostering sustainable practices and ensuring a prosperous future for coastal aquaculture in India.

Under the regulatory purview of the CAA, coastal aquaculture has expanded its scope to new realms of modern and scientific methods of sustainable farming. Recognising the need to expand the scope of coastal aquaculture and keeping in view environmental sustainability, the Government of India have made several amendments to the CAA Act, 2005, during the year 2023 and notified the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Act, 2023 (No 27 of 2023) on 14th August 2023. These amendments, which include bringing all the verticals of coastal aquaculture activities and units, including newer forms and mariculture activities, under the regulatory purview of the CAA, are aimed at promoting sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices, ensuring the long-term viability of the industry.

Subsequently, the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Rules, 2024 and Guidelines specific to various aquaculture practices and species cultured were brought in during 2024 to implement the Act effectively. These guidelines ensure that no coastal aquaculture activity harms the coastal environment.

In accordance with the provisions of the Act, Rules, and Guidelines, the CAA is committed to achieving complete registration of coastal aquaculture farms and hatcheries. This initiative aims to ensure that farmers have access to fully certified CAA antibiotic-free aquaculture inputs. Additionally, the CAA actively engages in various supportive activities, including conducting awareness programs, inspecting hatcheries and farms, and monitoring environmental protection efforts. These inspections and monitoring activities are designed to ensure adherence to regulations and guidelines while identifying and mitigating potential environmental risks. To enhance these efforts, the CAA collaborates closely with ICAR institutions, MPEDA, NFDB, and State Fisheries Departments, fostering a cooperative approach to achieving these critical goals.

I cordially invite all farmers, hatchery operators, input manufacturers and dealers, as well as processors and exporters, who play a crucial role in the coastal aquaculture sector, to join us in supporting the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) in its mission to sustain this vital industry in our country. Your contributions can significantly enhance our collective efforts by aligning with regulations and guidelines, participating in awareness programs, and providing valuable feedback and suggestions for improvement. Together, we can strengthen the CAA's initiatives and foster a flourishing coastal aquaculture community.

Jai Hind!
Dodda Venkata Swamy, IAS,
Chairperson, CAA