Bhubaneswar: The state Cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, today approved the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Bill, 2026, for establishment of a robust, modern and inclusive legal framework for the marine fisheries sector.

The Cabinet also gave its nod for repeal of the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982, said Chief Secretary Anu Garg.

The state government has enacted The Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Bill, 2026, to regulate the deep-sea fishing, promote marine cage culture and rejuvenate territorial waters for sustainable development, added the Chief Secretary.

Besides, the new legislation paves the way for integrated infrastructure development including modernization and management of fishing harbours and fish landing centres along the Odisha coast. Thus, the bill will ensure livelihood support and as well as employment generation, stated the Chief Secretary.

The new Bill puta emphasis on the safety the fishmen and coastal communities as well as the national security. Moreover, it has measures to curb illegal and unregulated fishing activities, she added.

“The new legislation is aligned with the Vikshit Odisha Vision 2036 and state’s Blue Economy initiatives, including deep sea fishing mission. It is likely to play a key role in achieving the target of Rs 25,000 crore seafood export by 2036,” said the Chief Secretary.