Ban on Foreign Vessels India EEZ

The Government of India has announced a major policy reform by enforcing a complete ban on foreign vessels in the India EEZ under the new Deep-Sea Fishing Rules 2025. These rules govern activities within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), covering 23 lakh sq. km of maritime territory.

For SSC aspirants, this topic is crucial under Environment, Economy, Government Schemes, and Current Affairs. This article provides a detailed, easy-to-understand explainer while maintaining SEO clarity and keyword density.

Why India Enforced the Ban on Foreign Vessels India's EEZ

The decision to implement the ban on foreign vessels in India’s EEZ was taken to protect India’s marine resources, secure fishermen’s livelihoods, and reduce unauthorised foreign exploitation. The policy strengthens India's EEZ rules, enhances EEZ security in India, and aligns with Indian fisheries law and global maritime norms.

India faced increasing cases of illegal foreign fishing in India, prompting the government to impose strict foreign vessel restrictions in Indian waters to safeguard national interests and marine biodiversity.

Key Features of the New Deep-Sea Fishing Rules 2025

1. Priority to Indian Fishermen Cooperatives and FFPOs

The government now prioritises:

• Fishermen Cooperative Societies

• Fish Farmer Producer Organisations (FFPOs)

These groups can access deep-sea zones using advanced vessels, supporting small fishers and promoting ocean resource protection under the updated Indian fishing policy.

2. Complete Ban on Foreign Vessels India's EEZ

A full ban on foreign vessels in India's EEZ has been implemented. This means:

• No foreign vessel can operate in the EEZ

• All foreign licences are cancelled

• Emergency action will be taken against violators

This reform supports Indian marine sovereignty policy and deepens national control over valuable marine resources.

3. Mother-and-Child Vessel Model

The new Mother-and-Child Vessel Model allows mid-sea transfer of catches. It is especially beneficial for:

• Andaman & Nicobar Islands

• Lakshadweep Islands

These island territories hold 49% of India’s EEZ, making them critical under India Exclusive Economic Zone regulations.

Digital Access Pass Through ReALCraft Portal

Under updated EEZ fishing permit regulations:

• Mechanised and large motorised vessels must obtain a ReALCraft Access Pass

• Small motorised and traditional boats are exempt

The portal offers:

• Minimal documentation

• Real-time vessel tracking

• Integration with MPEDA and EIC for issuing fish catch and health certificates

This ensures compliance with India's EEZ rules and strengthens export traceability.

Environmental Safeguards Under New Rules

The government has banned destructive fishing methods:

• LED light fishing

• Pair trawling

• Bull trawling

Minimum legal size norms prevent juvenile fish harvesting, aligning with marine regulation in India and global sustainability standards.

Safety and Surveillance Measures

To enhance security under the ban on foreign vessels in the India EEZ, the government introduced:

• Mandatory transponders

• QR-coded Aadhaar/Fisher ID

• Nabhmitra mobile application

• Coast Guard and Navy coordination

These measures boost EEZ security in India and ensure safer navigation in deep-sea zones.

Impact of the Ban on Foreign Vessels India's EEZ

1. Conservation of Marine Resources

• The ban on foreign vessels in the India EEZ protects tuna and other high-value species.

• It explains why India banned foreign vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone and how it strengthens marine sustainability.

2. Support for Fishermen

• The ban improves local income levels and reduces competition, illustrating the impact of the foreign vessel ban on Indian fishermen and the benefits of banning foreign fishing boats for coastal communities.

3. Growth in Exports

• Improved traceability and certification strengthen India’s seafood export competitiveness, supporting Indian government marine rules and long-term economic goals.

Exam-Relevant Significance of Ban on Foreign Vessels India's EEZ

SSC aspirants should focus on:

• Reason for the ban

• ReALCraft portal features

• Environmental bans

• Mother-and-Child Vessel Model

• Cooperative and FFPO prioritization

This aligns with questions from the Environment, Economy, Policy, and Governance sections.

Final Thoughts

India has introduced new deep-sea fishing regulations, highlighted by a strict ban on foreign vessels in the India EEZ to protect marine resources and safeguard local livelihoods.

The rules focus on empowering Indian fishermen cooperatives and FFPOs, promoting sustainable fishing, and ensuring better control over the nation’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone. A digital Access Pass through the ReALCraft portal, mandatory vessel tracking, and bans on harmful practices like LED fishing and pair trawling strengthen monitoring and environmental protection.

These reforms also improve traceability for seafood exports and enhance maritime security through coordinated surveillance with the Coast Guard and Navy.