The Goa Fisheries Department has granted initial approval for five applicants to install sea cages under the Goa Mariculture Policy. The project, set to launch at Anjuna, will focus on rearing fish species such as sea bass and cobia in offshore cages.

Each beneficiary will receive two circular sea cages, measuring 8–10 metres in height and 20 metres in diameter, designed to withstand wave conditions beyond five kilometres from the coast. In total, 10 cages will be deployed as part of the initiative. Applicants must complete documentation before receiving final clearance to begin operations.

The Goa Mariculture Policy aims to promote sustainable aquaculture and increase fish production. The government has established an expert committee, led by the director of fisheries, to oversee zoning and marine resource allocation. Members include representatives from the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), and other industry bodies.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year (until February), Goa produced 216.1 tonnes of fish through aquaculture, a slight increase from 208.9 tonnes the previous year. The state has 49 registered aquaculture farms and brackish water ponds, with 20 located in Salcete. Of the 18,500 hectares available for brackish water cultivation, 160.71 hectares are currently used for aquaculture.

Source - https://www.fdiforum.net