India’s First Open-Sea Marine Fish Farming Project launched at Andaman Sea

Current Context: India launched its first open-sea marine fish farming project in the Andaman Sea on 18 January 2026, inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh at North Bay near Port Blair.

• The project focuses on sustainable offshore aquaculture to boost seafood production, reduce coastal fishing pressure, and create livelihoods.
• It involves cage farming of high-value fish like seabass and cobia, along with seaweed cultivation.
• Developed using indigenous technology by NIOT, it is a joint effort of the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the Andaman & Nicobar administration.
• This marks a strategic step in India’s Blue Economy, empowering local communities and tapping the nation’s vast EEZ potential.

Question:

Q.1 India’s first open-sea marine fish farming project is located in which sea?
a) Arabian Sea
b) Bay of Bengal
c) Laccadive Sea
d) Andaman Sea

Answer: d) The project is located in the Andaman Sea, making it India’s first offshore aquaculture initiative in open sea conditions.