A recent study looked into the shark trade in two coastal areas of India—Goa on the west coast and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh on the east coast. The goal was to understand how shark fishing and trade work in these regions. The findings show that shark meat is the main product sold, and the fishing in these areas is mainly influenced by the availability of sharks rather than what consumers want to buy. However, there is a growing trend of people locally consuming shark products.
Even though there is a national ban on exporting shark fins, the study revealed that this trade continues, especially in Kakinada. India is home to around 160 species of sharks, with about 11% of these at risk of extinction, making it the third-largest shark fishing country in the world. Shark fishing happens in several states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, where various shark species are targeted or caught by accident among other fish.
Currently, 26 species of sharks and rays are protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, which prohibits shark finning and the export of fins. Interviews with local fishermen and traders showed a steady decline in shark catches, which matches national reports indicating that shark populations along India’s coastline are decreasing. For example, although black-tip sharks are commonly caught, studies suggest that catching too many young sharks in Goa is not sustainable. This highlights the urgent need for measures to protect shark populations and promote sustainable fishing practices.
To improve the sustainability of the shark trade, the study recommends several actions at different stages of the supply chain—from fishermen to traders to consumers. These steps aim to better manage how sharks are caught and sold, helping to create a more sustainable and fair fishery.
Experts like Shoba Joe Kizhakudan, who leads the Finfish Fisheries Division at ICAR-CMFRI, recognize the importance of this study. Kizhakudan points out that the recommended actions fit well with the National Plan of Action for Sharks—India, recently introduced by the Government of India.
Overall, this research sheds light on the intricate issues surrounding shark fishing and trade in India and highlights the need for focused actions to protect shark populations and the livelihoods that rely on them.
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