Context:
Recently, the Centre issued the ‘Guidelines for Import of Live Seaweeds into India’ to support the import of high-quality seed materials or germplasm, aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.
Relevance:
GS III: Environment and Ecology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Indian Seaweed Importation Guidelines
- Seaweeds
- Utilization and Benefits
Indian Seaweed Importation Guidelines
Regulatory Framework for Live Seaweed Import to India
- This establishes an integrated framework of regulation over all steps, from pre-importation quarantine and risk assessment through post-import monitoring. It ensures that pests and diseases are not allowed into the country, therefore providing some form of protection from biosecurity risks.
Challenges in the Seaweed Industry:
- Quality seaweed seeds are available in limited quantities for most species, especially Kappaphycus, which is grown extensively in India. The regulations target the quality and supply issues and seek to stabilize the seed supply chain.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY):
- India aims to nearly double its seaweed production under the PMMSY; it is targeting over 1.12 million tonnes in 2025. This encompasses important investments, including a Multipurpose Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu that will improve local seaweed farming infrastructure.
Promotion of Sustainable Seaweed Farming
- Supports sustainable and economically viable practice in seaweed cultivation. It helps introduce new strains of seaweed to diversify and upgrade production capabilities by focusing on cultivating various types of algae such as red, brown, and green algae.
Seaweeds
- Seaweeds refer to a diverse group of marine plants and algae found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and other aquatic environments.
- These organisms come in various colors including red, green, brown, and black, ranging from tiny forms to expansive underwater forests.
Anchorage and Growth
- Seaweeds attach to substrates using root-like structures called “holdfasts,” which solely serve for anchorage without nutrient absorption, unlike terrestrial plant roots.
- Typically, seaweeds exhibit distinct zonation patterns, thriving in shallow waters up to 50 meters (approximately 165 feet) deep.
Utilization and Benefits
- Culinary and Commercial Use: Many seaweed types are edible and hold significant commercial value.
- Agricultural Application: Often utilized as fertilizers or for their polysaccharide content.
- Health Benefits:
- Antioxidant Properties: Seaweeds are rich in antioxidants that shield the body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
- Fat Metabolism: Studies indicate that certain compounds in seaweeds boost the production of proteins that effectively metabolize fat.
- Diabetes Management: Consuming seaweed may regulate blood sugar levels, aiding in diabetes management.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial: Contains compounds that offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
- Industrial Uses:
- Manufacturing Additives: Used as binding agents or emulsifiers in products like toothpaste and fruit jellies.
- Cosmetic Applications: Act as softening agents in various organic skincare and cosmetic products.
-Source: The Hindu
