Kochi, October 25, 2025

Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian inaugurated the Fisheries Outreach program at Njarakkal, Ernakulam today.

The Minister said that the program aims to create awareness about the importance of NFDP registration. Shri Kurian urged all those associated with the fisheries sector to actively register under the National Fisheries Development Programme (NFDP) to avail iwelfare benefits.

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 villages. 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.

While mentioning that India is the 2nd largest producer in the fisheries sector, he shared the government's vision of making India the largest producer and urged everyone to work towards realising this goal. The Minister also said that various schemes of the government target to ensure the growth of the fisheries sector.

Concluding his address, the Minister talked about PMs mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas stressing on the significance of everyone's hard work in making India a developed nation.
 

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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