In India fishing activities, prior to independence were tlie prerogative of the traditional fishermen employing indigenous fishing craft and gear. Subsequently, mechanisation was initiated to improve the socio-economic condition of the fishermen and augment fish production by various developmental measures taken by the government through the Five Year Plans and foreign assistance leading to the introduction and establishment of modem methods of fishing like shrimp trawling and purse seining. Constant efforts were made to improve the gear and craft used in this sector. Entry of large number of vessels resulted in the reduction of catch per unit effort for prawns. New resources identified can be exploited by using diversified fishing technique developed in the country to increase the fish catch. These diversified fishing techniques are discussed and suggestions made for further improvement.