'Women make up nearly half of India’s small-scale fisheries'

A total of 4.8 million women engage in small-scale fisheries in the country, accounting for four out of every 10 people involved in the sector

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Women constitute nearly half of India's small-scale fisheries workforce, feeding millions and sustaining livelihoods across coastal and inland communities, according to a new study.

A total of 4.8 million women engage in small-scale fisheries in the country, accounting for four out of every 10 people involved in the sector, the study by Global Illuminating Hidden Harvests (IHH) of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations said.

Their contributions span the value chain, including 27 per cent in pre-harvest activities such as net making and boat operation; 18 per cent in harvesting; and a significant 55 per cent in post-harvest handling, processing, and trade, the study noted.

IHH provides a snapshot of the contributions of small-scale fisheries (SSF) to sustainable development.