India’s fisheries sector is undergoing rapid growth, with Kerala emerging as a model state in advancing the nation’s blue economy, said Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj. He was speaking at the inauguration of the Blue Tides Kerala–European Union Conclave, organized by the Kerala Government to promote sustainability and innovation in the fisheries sector.

Highlighting India’s remarkable progress, Shri Singh said the country has become the second-largest fish producer in the world, with production nearly doubling over the past decade. Fish production has hiked from 9.6 million tonnes in 2014–15 to 19.5 million tonnes in 2024–25. He added that the Union Government has sanctioned ₹1,346 crore to Kerala for various development projects in the fisheries sector and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting the state through initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

Addressing the conclave through a video message, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways emphasized the critical role of oceans in unlocking new opportunities for economic growth. He called for a balance between responsible utilization and conservation of marine resources, adding that the conclave represents not just a forum for dialogue but a symbol of collective commitment to sustainable ocean governance.

Shri George Kurian, Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Minority Affairs, highlighted Kerala’s impressive infrastructure expansion in the sector, made possible with Central assistance. Key initiatives include seven modern fishing harbours, nine integrated modern coastal fishing villages, six climate-resilient villages, two advanced fish markets, and the distribution of 6,500 satellite-based transponders to fishermen in collaboration with ISRO to enhance safety at sea. He also underlined Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of strengthening India–EU relations, stressing the shared responsibility of both sides in today’s interconnected global economy.

Kerala Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, who inaugurated the conclave, expressed Kerala's readiness to deepen trade and cooperation with the European Union, citing the state’s skilled workforce and strong infrastructure. He further added that the state's partnership with the EU is rooted in shared goals of prosperity, sustainability, and human progress, while extending gratitude to the Union Government, the EU, and other stakeholders for their support in making the conclave a reality.

The event was presided over by State Fisheries Minister Shri Saji Cherian, with Kerala's Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak delivering the welcome address. H E Hervé Delphin, EU Ambassador to India, presented the keynote speech. The ceremony was attended by several State Ministers of Kerala, including Shri K N Balagopal, Shri K Rajan, Shri P A Muhammed Riyas, Shri J Chinchurani, Shri Veena George, Shri Kadannappalli Ramachandran, industrialist Shri M.A. Yusuff Ali, and ambassadors from 18 European nations, alongside representatives of the Federation of European Business in India. Shri Abdul Nasser B, IAS, Special Secretary, Kerala State Fisheries Department proposed the vote of thanks.

The Blue Tides Kerala–EU Conclave marks a significant step in fostering global partnerships for sustainable fisheries and ocean-based economic development, positioning Kerala as a national leader and global partner in the growth of the blue economy.

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