Centre launches pilot project to boost diversified fish farming in Kuttanad, Kerala

The Government of India is set to launch a pilot project aimed at reviving diversified fish farming in the Kuttanad region of Kerala. The initiative, announced by the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian, was finalized during a consultative meeting at the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi.

The project will implement a combination of modern and traditional aquaculture practices to strengthen the local economy. Key components include integrated fish farming, cage fish farming, the sustainable “one fish one paddy” approach, and biofloc fish farming techniques.

To empower local fish farmers, Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs) will be formed to streamline operations and ensure greater market access. Extensive training programmes will be organized to provide farmers with skills in aquaculture, while startups will be encouraged to enter the sector and take up activities such as processing, cleaning, packing, and fish trade to add value and generate employment.

Recognizing the unique aquatic conditions of Kuttanad, the project will be implemented through separate fresh and brackish water initiatives for Upper and Lower Kuttanad. Technical and scientific expertise will be drawn from premier research institutions, including ICAR institutes, central agencies, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).

A detailed project report will be prepared to enable swift and effective implementation, ensuring that the initiative delivers sustainable economic benefits to the region.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including former Union Minister of State Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Fisheries Development Commissioner Dr. Mohammed Koya, CMFRI Director Dr. Grinson George, CMFRI Principal Scientist Dr. Imelda Joseph, as well as representatives from research institutes, government agencies, and KVKs.