India just banned foreign vessels from fishing in its waters

India Nov 08, 2025

India just announced fresh rules to make deep-sea fishing in its waters more sustainable.
From now on, bigger motorized and mechanized boats need a special Access Pass to fish in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), while smaller boats mostly get a pass.

What else is changing?

These changes are all about protecting marine life and supporting local communities.
Foreign vessels are now banned from India's EEZ, and harmful fishing methods like LED light fishing and pair trawling are out.
The government is also stepping up support for fisher groups with better boats, training, and credit schemes.
The goal? Healthier oceans, stronger seafood exports, and fairer opportunities for small-scale fishers—so the next generation can keep casting their nets too.