Thrissur, October 25, 2025

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, urged all those associated with the fisheries sector to actively register under the National Fisheries Development Programme (NFDP) to avail insurance coverage and multiple welfare benefits.

 

He was addressing a Fisheries Outreach Programme organized at Thrissur today. The Minister emphasized that the objective of the NFDP is to ensure that maximum benefits reach those associated with the fishing community

 

The Minister appreciated the Government of Kerala for extending full cooperation in implementing the Central Government policies in fidheries sector.

Highlighting the progress made in infrastructure development, Shri Kurian said that many fishing harbours have been redeveloped through the joint efforts of both governments. The Minister also informed that low-interest loans are being provided for the development of fishing harbours. 

The Minister stated that nine integrated coastal villages in Kerala have been selected for development. He said that facilities such as processing centres, kiosks, and community centres will be installed in these village. These projects, aimed at promoting climate-resilient and technology-driven fisheries, will be fully funded by the Central Government with an allocation of ₹2 crore. The Minister also mentioned that the State Government will identify the beneficiary villages.

 

The Minister also emphasized that we must work towards increasing fisheries production. “India today ranks second globally in fish production and processing, a result of the hard work and dedication of our fishers and fish farmers,” he said.

He also stated the Government is commited in supporting cooperative societies of fish farmers, ensuring that they receive due benefits under welfare and development schemes.

 

Concluding his address, the Minister remarked that India’s strength lies in its unity, and urged everyone in the sector to work hard and contribute to the turning Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat a reality by 2047.

 

The Outreach Programme aimed to create awareness among fishers and fish farmers about various welfare and livelihood enhancement schemes of the Government of India and to promote sustainable fisheries practices.

 

During the event, Shri George Kurian distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs), transponders, and NFDP registration certificates, and interacted with fishers and fish farmers to understand their challenges and discuss opportunities for strengthening Kerala’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

 

The event also served as a platform for direct engagement between the Minister and stakeholders, facilitating the delivery of key benefits under the Department of Fisheries, Government of India.

LPSS/GG

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