World Tuna Day

World Tuna Day History

World Tuna Day is dedicated to highlighting vital socio-economic value of tuna and to underline the importance of sustainable fishing practices. Being an important species of the ocean, tuna supplies a critical source of food to all regions of the world. For humans, tuna offers nutritional advantages, largely due to its rich protein, vitamin and mineral content. Additionally, tuna forms a critical part of many ecosystems, helping to maintain the balance of marine life. Therefore, the day plays a crucial role in encouraging sustainable fishing and preserving the population of diverse tuna species worldwide.

As for India, World Tuna Day holds immense significance. Indian waters are discernably rich, and tuna is one of the many species that Indians harness for both coastal folk and urban dwellers. The history of this day goes back to 2011, when the General Assembly of the United Nations recognized the day to raise awareness about the importance of tuna. Awareness also revolves around the challenges associated with tuna conservation in India, given the over-exploitation due to high demand, illegal fishing, and climate change. It is also noted that tuna fisheries support many coastal communities in India, providing livelihood to millions.

Observance of World Tuna Day in India includes enhanced awareness campaigns focusing on the importance of tuna and how its overfishing can disrupt the ecological equilibrium. Various government bodies, NGOs, and environmental entities conduct seminars, workshops and social media campaigns underlining the importance of sustainable fishing practices. These activities seek to promote regulatory measures in fishing, ensuring a balance between the need for livelihood and ecological sustainability. World Tuna Day happens annually on May 2nd.

Facts about World Tuna Day

• The theme for World Tuna Day in 2023 was Yes We Can.
  The theme in 2022 was The Global Tuna Industry: Trailblazing through Tough Times.
• The tuna industry has an estimated global sale value of almost $10 billion according to the UN.
• The commonly found species in the Indian waters are the Yellowfin Tuna, Skipjack Tuna, and Bigeye Tuna. The Longtail Tuna and the Southern Bluefin Tuna are also found but their occurrences are rare.
• According to the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) of India, tuna and tuna-like species are one of the major marine fishery resources in India. The institute has even recommended increasing the fishing of oceanic species like tuna to reduce the pressure on coastal species.

In the News and Trending in India for World Tuna Day

Top things to do in India for World Tuna Day

• Learn more about the different kinds of tuna species. Greenpeace lists several species of tuna and provides healthy recommendations for consumption.
• Visit the Chennai Seafood Festival, an annual event that takes place in Chennai and celebrates the city's seafood traditions. The festival includes a variety of tuna dishes, as well as other seafood delicacies.
• Go on the Kerala Tuna Fishing tour. The operates in Kochi and offers visitors a chance to fish for tuna in the Arabian Sea. Tours are led by experienced guides who provide the necessary equipment and knowledge for a successful fishing trip.