Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 9: The Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration has informed all fishermen, fishing boat owners and fisheries stakeholders that the Government of India has notified the “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone of India Rules, 2025” with the objective of ensuring a transparent, sustainable and export-oriented framework for deep-sea fisheries. The said Rules have exceptional relevance for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, as the Islands are strategically located and provide wide scope for EEZ fishing, with the region covering nearly one-third of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extends up to 200 nautical miles from the coastline, where India has special rights for exploration, conservation and management of marine resources, including fisheries. The EEZ Rules, 2025 aim to promote sustainable fishing practices, improve safety and security at sea, enhance fisher income through deep-sea fishing opportunities, and support value addition and export potential from marine fisheries.
In this regard, the Department has sensitized all concerned that an “Access Pass” is a mandatory permit introduced under the EEZ Rules, 2025 for eligible vessels to undertake fishing activities in the EEZ. The Access Pass is intended to ensure regulated fishing, better monitoring, improved safety and security, and lawful operations in the deep sea. The Access Pass is being issued through an online system, and all applications are required to be submitted through the ReAlCraft portal.
It is further clarified for the information of all stakeholders that the Access Pass is required for all mechanized fishing vessels, for motorized fishing vessels having 24 m and above Overall Length (OAL), and for pole and line fishing vessels. At the same time, the Access Pass is not required for motorized traditional fishing vessels below 24 m OAL which are not engaged in tuna fishery, and also for non-motorized traditional fishing vessels.
The Access Pass system under the EEZ Rules, 2025 is expected to provide multiple benefits to the fishing community, including improved income opportunities through regulated access to deep-sea fishing, enhanced safety and security during operations, and a sustainable framework ensuring long-term livelihood security.
All eligible fishing vessel owners are therefore advised to apply for the Access Pass through ReAlCraft at the earliest, so as to ensure compliance with the notified Rules and to avail the benefits of EEZ fishing opportunities. For any clarification, guidance, or assistance in the application process, fishermen and boat owners may contact the nearest Zonal Fisheries Office or Fisheries Sub-Station.