Seaweed Production in India

As reported by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI) total seaweed production in India was 72,385 tonnes (wet weight) in 2023.

Seaweed plays a crucial role in supporting the blue economy, which focuses on the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

Recently, India significantly increased seaweed cultivation by promoting sustainable seaweed farming practices. 

The main cultivated species are Kappaphycus alvarezii and Gracilaria edulis, which are widely used for carrageenan and agar production. Additionally, seaweed is utilized in food, biofertilizers, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, animal feed, and biofuels.

In June 2020, the Government of India launched a flagship scheme, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), with a total investment of Rs. 20,050 crore to promote the fisheries sector in the country. The promotion of seaweed cultivation is one of the priority activities under PMMSY.

The Department of Fisheries under India’s Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has designated the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) as a centre of excellence for seaweed cultivation.

Further, Department of Fisheries has approved seaweed projects worth Rs 194.09 crore, with a central share of Rs 98.97 crore including support provided to beneficiaries for the installation of Rafts, Monolines/Tubenets, the establishment of a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu, Pre-feasibility Assessment Studies on seaweed farming, awareness and training programs in various States and Union Territories under the PMMSY.

Besides, the Mandapam Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has been designated a Centre of Excellence for seaweed development and Lakshadweep Islands has been designated a Seaweed Cluster.

Department of Fisheries has approved projects under the PMMSY to establish seaweed seed banks in Tamil Nadu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, and Lakshadweep. This will help maintain the genetic diversity of indigenous seaweed species and ensure a steady supply of high-quality seedlings.

In October 2024, the government also issued the Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India, allowing the import of high-quality seed strains.

Harnessing seaweed production in India can drive environmental sustainability and economic growth, benefiting coastal communities, marine biodiversity, and the blue economy.