Goa – where the only thing as abundant as the sunshine is the local appetite for fish. The beaches and vibrant nightlife have made it a global hotspot. Locals here have a rather peculiar penchant for fish – it’s more than just a meal; it’s a way of life.
How much fish do Goans eat?
According to a Union Ministry of Fisheries survey, an average Goan consumes around 78 kg of fish every year. Giving a further break-up, the report stated that on average, a Goan eats 6.5 kg of fish monthly. The state ranks second in the list of states that consume large quantities of fish.
Two-month fishing ban
The two-month fishing prohibition in Goa occurs between June 1 and July 31. The ban is aimed at allowing fish breeding and conserving marine life. But this also reduces the amount of fresh fish available locally, making people rely more on fish from nearby states like Karnataka and Maharashtra. When fish are brought in from other regions, the cost of getting them to market, including transportation and handling, rises. These extra costs get passed on to the customers.
Fish consumption in India
Traditionally, apart from Goa, the northeastern and eastern states, along with Kerala, see a higher fish consumption. In contrast, the northern states have the smallest share of fish eaters. I grew up in Rajasthan, where fish consumption remains the lowest, where an individual consumes only 0.01 kg per year. It also reflects my comfort in eating fish which is only ‘without bones’.