Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, inaugurated and led the Fisheries Outreach Program in Njarakkal, Ernakulam, on October 25, 2025. The event focused on promoting awareness and registration under the National Fisheries Development Programme (NFDP), a key initiative to strengthen welfare benefits and technological adoption across India’s fisheries sector.
Empowering Fishers Through NFDP Registration
Addressing the gathering, Shri Kurian underscored the program’s goal of educating fishers and aquaculture workers on the benefits of NFDP registration. The scheme ensures that fishing communities receive access to insurance, financial aid, and modern facilities. He urged all fishers to register under NFDP to avail themselves of the various welfare benefits offered by the Central Government.
Integrated Coastal Development in Kerala
The Minister announced that nine coastal villages in Kerala have been selected for integrated development under a fully-funded Central Government initiative worth ₹2 crore. These model villages will feature fish processing centres, kiosks, and community halls, designed to encourage climate-resilient and technology-driven fisheries. The State Government will play a key role in identifying beneficiary communities and ensuring equitable outreach.
Expanding India’s Global Fisheries Footprint
Highlighting India’s leadership in the global fisheries arena, Shri Kurian noted that the nation is currently the second-largest fish producer and processor worldwide. He called upon fishers and fish farmers to work collectively to position India as the world’s largest fisheries producer. The Minister stressed that the government’s ongoing efforts — including infrastructure upgrades, modern harbour development, and low-interest financing for fisheries cooperatives — have substantially increased productivity and reduced economic risk for fishers.
Strengthening Central-State Collaboration
Commending the Kerala State Government’s collaboration in implementing Central fisheries initiatives, Shri Kurian acknowledged progress made through joint efforts, including harbour redevelopment and financial support for coastal infrastructure. These efforts, he said, reflect the government’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive Blue Economy.
Delivering Benefits to the Grassroots
During the event, the Minister personally distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs), NFDP Certificates, and transponders to fishers and fish farmers. He interacted with stakeholders to understand challenges such as fuel costs, marine resource conservation, and market access. The outreach served as a direct communication bridge between policymakers and primary stakeholders, ensuring that policy benefits reach the intended communities efficiently.
Towards a Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision
In his concluding remarks, Shri Kurian invoked the Prime Minister’s vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas,” emphasizing the collective strength of India’s fishers in realizing the dream of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cooperatives, empowering fish farmers, and making India’s aquaculture sector globally competitive, socially inclusive, and environmentally resilient.
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Source: PIB
