The importance of fisheries in the national economy needs no emphasis. The reasons for the development of fisheries In India are the
same as In many of the Third World countries: the need to a) increased fish production, b) secure Income and foreign exchange, and c) provision
of employment opportunities. This paper intends 1. to review and examine the current pace of social science research In marine fisheries, 2.to
evaluate the performance of fishery policy and planning in India, and 3.to emphasise the need for sustained contribution of social science research
for the integrated development and management of marine fisheries.it Is found that the pace of social science research in the fisheries sector has
hither to been rather limited. Excepting a few studies sponsored by Government and also some pioneering attempts by individual social scientists,
systematic analytical research Is lacking. The efforts of fishery policy and planning In India, so far, resulted In realising some of the national
objectives in terms of growth of marine fish production and exports. information about the improvement of the socio-economic conditions of
fishermen is scanty. Due to absence of social science research interms of penodlcal evaluation of planning strategy, implementation mechanism
and the resultant benefits, the desired results could not be achieved. Therefore, it is necessary to concentrate or problem oriented researching to
Integrate the same with fisheries planning, and also to strengthen the social science research capacity for better development and management
of marine fisheries