Sri Lanka's Fisheries Ministry has commissioned a research report to investigate declining fish catches reported by the nation's fishing communities, amid concerns about environmental factors affecting marine stocks.

The Ministry of Fisheries has requested a comprehensive scientific assessment from the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) to examine fish populations in Sri Lankan waters. Deputy Minister of Fisheries Rathna Gamage indicated that fishermen across the country have reported reduced catches in recent periods, prompting the official investigation.

The ministry's inquiry extends beyond immediate catch data to include an evaluation of broader environmental factors. Specifically, NARA has been tasked with assessing how El Niño conditions may be influencing fish stocks and overall fishing productivity in the region.

According to Deputy Minister Gamage, the findings from NARA's report will form the basis for policy decisions. The ministry intends to implement appropriate measures concerning fishing practices and stock management once the scientific recommendations are available, suggesting a data-driven approach to addressing the sector's challenges.