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.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Kurian emphasized the importance of NFDP registration and urged all stakeholders in the fisheries sector to register under the National Fisheries Development Programme (NFDP) to avail welfare benefits.
The Minister announced that nine integrated coastal villages in Kerala have been selected for development under this initiative. Facilities such as processing centres, kiosks, and community centres will be established in these villages, with full funding of ₹2 crore from the Central Government. The State Government will identify the beneficiary villages.
Shri Kurian highlighted India’s position as the second-largest producer in the fisheries sector and shared the government’s vision of making India the largest producer, urging all to contribute toward this goal. He also reiterated the significance of government schemes aimed at promoting sustainable and technology-driven fisheries.
Concluding his address, the Minister underlined PM’s mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, emphasizing the role of collective effort in nation-building.
The Outreach Programme served to raise awareness among fishers and fish farmers about welfare and livelihood enhancement schemes, while promoting sustainable fisheries practices. During the event, Shri George Kurian distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs), transponders, and NFDP registration certificates, and engaged directly with stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities for strengthening Kerala’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
