World Tuna Day 2025: A Global Wake-Up Call for Ocean Sustainability
By – Dr. Birbal Jha
New Delhi, May 2 ,2025 — As the world marks World Tuna Day today, the focus sharpens once again on the pressing need for sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation. Designated by the United Nations, the observance aims to raise awareness about the vital role tuna plays in global food security, economic stability, and ecological balance.
Tuna, a staple in global diets and a major commodity in the international seafood market, represents nearly 20% of the value of all marine fisheries. In India, the species supports thousands of livelihoods along the country’s vast coastline, particularly in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
But while demand for tuna surges, so do concerns over its future. Overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing have pushed several tuna species to dangerously low population levels. The bluefin tuna, for instance, has seen a catastrophic decline of over 90% in recent decades, according to international marine assessments.
Conservation in Focus
Global action has intensified in recent years. Regional bodies such as the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) and global watchdogs like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) are pushing for stricter regulations, transparency, and consumer awareness.
India, too, has started aligning with global conservation efforts. Government-led initiatives now promote scientific fishing limits, gear regulation, and stock assessments to ensure long-term viability. Marine researchers and policy planners are increasingly working in tandem to protect tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean region.
The Consumer’s Role
Experts say the fight to save tuna cannot rest with governments and organizations alone. Public participation remains crucial. Consumers are urged to:
• Choose tuna certified by sustainable fisheries.
• Avoid brands that engage in unsustainable or exploitative practices.
• Raise awareness within their networks and communities.
• Support local conservation drives and clean ocean campaigns.
A Shared Responsibility
The tuna crisis is a global issue, but solutions must be both global and local. India, with its rich maritime traditions, has a responsibility to lead by example. Our cultural reverence for rivers and oceans compels us to act in defence of marine life.”
World Tuna Day is more than symbolic—it’s a reminder that the health of our oceans is directly linked to the health of our economies and societies.
As the world confronts climate change, depleting fish stocks, and shrinking biodiversity, the sustainable management of tuna is fast becoming a test case for international cooperation—and public consciousness.
Dr. Birbal Jha is a linguist, author, and cultural entrepreneur committed to environmental and educational advancement.