India, Nov. 10 -- The Centre is stepping up efforts to develop Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as major hubs of high-value marine fisheries, with a focus on tuna, seaweed cultivation and ornamental fish, as part of its broader Blue Economy strategy.

The two island territories, which together account for nearly 40% of India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), are being positioned to tap underutilised marine resources through modern fishing fleets, improved cold-chain infrastructure, processing facilities and stronger export linkages.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the government envisaged investments of Rs.218 crore for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Rs.175 crore for Lakshadweep, taking the comb...