Kerala’s fisheries sector is set for a major boost as the Centre steps up investments aimed at improving fishermen’s livelihoods, expanding fish production and strengthening modern fisheries infrastructure. Under key initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) and the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility, a range of financial, technological and livelihood support measures are being implemented across the state.
PMMSY, the Government of India has approved fisheries development projects worth ₹1,413.91 crore for Kerala during the last five years and the current financial year 2026-27. The Centre’s share in these projects amounts to ₹598.58 crore, of which ₹462.22 crore has already been released. According to the Kerala government, ₹451.807 crore of the released central assistance has been utilized so far. The initiatives are aimed at improving fisheries infrastructure, supporting fishers and promoting sustainable and technology-driven aquaculture.
Government-backed interventions are providing traditional fishermen with assistance for boats and fishing nets, along with livelihood support during fishing ban periods. At the same time, modern aquaculture technologies are being promoted to create additional income opportunities. These include biofloc fish farming, Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), backyard ornamental fish units and brackish-water cage culture. Support is also being extended for fish marketing and transportation through facilities such as fish kiosks, three-wheelers equipped with ice boxes and motorcycles with ice boxes. In Vadakara, Kerala, around 7,561 beneficiaries have reportedly benefited from these fisheries-related interventions.
To strengthen fisheries infrastructure, the Centre has approved 13 projects in Kerala under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), with a combined project cost of ₹551.72 crore. One of the major initiatives is the Integrated Fisheries Development Project of MATSYAFED, with a project cost of ₹35.97 crore. The project is being implemented across Kerala and includes financial assistance to fishermen for purchasing outboard motors, fishing nets and other fishing equipment.
Livelihood Support during Fishing Ban Period:
To protect fishermen from income disruptions during the fishing ban period, livelihood assistance has also been included under PMMSY. For Kerala, livelihood support has been approved for 1,71,033 beneficiaries during the fishing ban period. In addition, support has been sanctioned for 200 boats and fishing nets, along with the establishment of 9 Integrated Modern Coastal Fishing Villages and 6 Climate-Resilient Coastal Fishing Villages.
Deep-Sea Fishing and Alternative Livelihoods Get a Boost:
The government is also focusing on expanding employment opportunities beyond traditional fishing activities. Under approved fisheries interventions in Kerala, support has been provided for 20 deep-sea fishing vessels, 1,140 bivalve culture units and 468 fish transportation units. To improve aquatic resources and fisheries productivity, 42 artificial reefs have also been approved. In addition, 10 Matsya Seva Kendras and 222 Sagar Mitras have been sanctioned.
18,908 KCC Cards Approved for Fisheries Beneficiaries:
Access to institutional credit is another key focus of the government's fisheries support programme. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility has been extended to people engaged in fisheries and aquaculture to help them meet working-capital and other operational requirements. In Kerala, 18,908 KCC cards have been sanctioned for fisheries beneficiaries so far. Easier access to formal credit can help fishermen and fish farmers manage their operational expenses and strengthen their livelihood activities.
Focus on Safer and More Sustainable Fisheries Livelihoods:
The government's fisheries interventions in Kerala go beyond increasing fish production. The focus is increasingly shifting towards income diversification, modern aquaculture, better infrastructure, financial inclusion, safety and social security for fishing communities.
FAQs:
1. How much fisheries investment has been approved for Kerala?
₹1,413.91 crore in fisheries projects has been approved under PMMSY.
2. How much has the Centre released?
The Centre has released ₹462.22 crore from its approved share.
3. How many FIDF projects are approved?
Thirteen FIDF projects worth ₹551.72 crore have been approved.
4. How many KCC cards have been sanctioned?
A total of 18,908 KCC cards have been sanctioned for fisheries beneficiaries.
5. What support is available to fishermen?
Support includes boats, fishing nets, livelihood assistance, modern aquaculture, transportation, infrastructure and institutional credit.
