Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 30: Goa’s overall fish production rose slightly in the financial year 2024–25, with official estimates showing a modest increase of just under two per cent compared to the previous year. While total output touched over 1.28 lakh tonnes—around 1,300 tonnes higher than the 1.27 lakh tonnes recorded in 2023–24—production trends revealed a more nuanced picture beneath the headline growth.

Despite the overall uptick, several staple fish varieties that form a regular part of Goan diets saw a notable decline. Mackerel (bangda), the most widely consumed fish in the state, registered the steepest drop—falling from 50,213 tonnes in 2023–24 to 43,728 tonnes in 2024–25, a sharp decrease of 7,485 tonnes. Sardine (tarle) production also dipped significantly by over 4,000 tonnes, sliding from 18,022 tonnes to 13,907 tonnes.

Other commonly consumed varieties such as shark (mori), tuna (bokdo), crabs, and silver fish (balle) also recorded reduced yields this year, raising concerns among fish vendors and consumers about availability and prices.

In contrast, premium and export-oriented varieties posted impressive gains. Kingfish (visvon) production jumped by 1,203 tonnes from last year’s 1,594 tonnes, while sole fish (lepo) climbed by 533 tonnes over the 1,384 tonnes harvested in 2023–24. Milk fish (vellio), a local favourite in curries and fried dishes, also saw a modest increase of 66 tonnes.

Squid (manki) emerged as a standout, with production soaring by nearly 2,400 tonnes—from 4,013 tonnes in 2023–24 to 6,401 tonnes this year—marking one of the most substantial increases across all categories.

The figures suggest a shifting trend in the marine catch profile, possibly influenced by changing oceanic conditions, overfishing of traditional species, or evolving consumer and export demand. While the Fisheries Department has not yet commented on the reasons behind these specific variations, the data points to both opportunities and concerns for the sector in the year ahead.