General
Fisheries economics (2+1)
Fisheries play an important role in our national economy. It provides about Rs. 35,650 crores (2007–08) to the national income (GDP) (according to Central Statistical Organization). Our present annual fish production through capture and culture fisheries is 7.58 million tonnes (FAO, 2008), and by providing a cheap source of protein it helps in ensuring nutritional security of our people. Further, through the export of fish and fishery products, our country has earned foreign exchange worth Rs. 12,825 crores annually (2011, source: MPEDA). Above all, the fisheries sector is known to provide direct and indirect employment for about 14.66 million people (FAO).
Knowledge about the livelihood and welfare development of the fisherfolk, who are the stakeholders of fisheries, is also equally important as the socioeconomic status of the fishing community is an integral component of fisheries economics and management.
Professional fisheries graduates need to have adequate understanding of basic concepts in economics for serving the needs of fisherfolk. In this connection, this manual is being brought out as it explains fisheries economics in a comprehensive way, in an easy to read style. I am sure that the students of Fisheries Science would find this publication useful and interesting.