Home  > Our Work > Programme Areas > Coastal and Marine Systems

Started in 1990, the Coastal Resources and Fisheries Programme is one of MSSRF’s flagship initiatives, set up to integrate ecological security with livelihood security for our coastal communities. The programme promotes sustainable management of coastal and marine resources by restoring ecosystems and supporting local livelihoods through science-driven, community-centred approaches.

Over 60% of the world’s population lives within 60 km of the coast. India, with over 7,500 km of coastline, faces major challenges like habitat loss, marine debris, climate change, and rising sea levels. Coastal communities, often marginalized and resource-poor, depend heavily on fisheries, agriculture, and tourism. The programme addresses these challenges through an ecosystem-based coastal management approach that ensures ecological and economic resilience.

Our Strategy

MSSRF’s twin strategy focuses on:

Key Focus Areas

1. Conservation and Restoration of Coastal Ecosystems

We work with communities to conserve and restore mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and coastal forests. Techniques like Joint Mangrove Management empower locals to become custodians of their environment.

2. Sustainable Marine and Coastal Fisheries

Through the Fish for All Research and Training Centre, we train coastal communities in sustainable fishing, safe fish handling, and value addition. We also tackle marine debris and promote climate-resilient fisheries.

3. Seawater Farming Innovations

We pioneered Integrated Mangrove Fishery Farming Systems (IMFFS) and Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, combining aquaculture with mangrove restoration for biodiversity and income generation.

4. Biosaline Agriculture

In saline-prone areas, we support farmers with traditional rice varieties, halophytic plants, and integrated farming models combining paddy, fish, and duck farming to ensure sustainable agriculture even in harsh conditions.

Current Initiatives

• Mangrove and shelterbelt plantations in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
• Integrated aquaculture and blue carbon solutions in the Palk Bay region.
• Community-led ghost gear recovery in Gulf of Mannar.
• ICT innovations to bridge the gender digital divide in fisheries.
• Strengthening education, health, and livelihoods of tribal fishing communities.
• Promoting Fish Farmer Producer Organizations in coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

Building a Resilient Coastal Future

The Coastal Resources and Fisheries Programme stands as a pioneering model for integrating ecological restoration with livelihood enhancement. Over the past 35 years, MSSRF’s work has helped shape national and global coastal conservation and community resilience strategies — setting a benchmark for sustainable coastal development.

Together, we’re protecting our coasts and empowering communities for a sustainable future.