Government Initiates Experimental Venture for Rejuvenating Varied Fish Cultivation in Kuttanad, Kerala

A new pilot project has been announced by Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian, with the aim of uplifting the fishing community in Kerala's Kuttanad region.

The meeting, held on August 25, 2025, was attended by former Union Minister of State Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Fisheries Development Commissioner Dr Mohammed Koya, CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George, Principal Scientist Dr Imelda Joseph, and representatives from various research institutions and government agencies.

The project will integrate modern and traditional aquaculture practices, including cage fish farming, biofloc farming, and the innovative "one fish one paddy" system. It will focus on both fresh and brackish water farming in Upper and Lower Kuttanad.

Premier research institutions, including ICAR institutes and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), will provide scientific and technical expertise for the project. Extensive training programmes will be included to equip farmers with advanced skills in aquaculture.

The primary goal of the project is to generate sustainable income for fish farmers while creating new employment opportunities. Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs) will be formed to empower local communities, streamline operations, and provide better access to markets.

The detailed report on the project planning will be prepared by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE). The project aims to enhance livelihood opportunities and boost the local economy, without mentioning any new challenges or threats to the Kuttanad region.

The project encourages startups to venture into processing, packaging, and fish trade, thereby adding value to the sector. However, no new startups were mentioned in this paragraph.

Climate change has been threatening paddy farmers in the Kuttanad region, causing decreasing yields and increasing challenges. (Related Link)

A detailed project report will be prepared to facilitate swift execution and deliver long-term economic benefits. No new employment or income generation opportunities were mentioned in this paragraph, but the project is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy and provide improved livelihood opportunities for the fishing community.