Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying George Kurian has urged fishers across India to register under the National Fisheries Development Programme (NFDP) to avail insurance and welfare benefits designed to strengthen coastal livelihoods.

Speaking at the Fisheries Outreach Programme in Thrissur, Kurian said the NFDP aims to ensure that central welfare schemes reach every fisher and fish farmer through a unified digital platform. “Our goal is to bring every stakeholder into the formal network, ensuring financial protection and inclusive development,” he said.

Applauding the Kerala Government’s collaboration in implementing central fisheries initiatives, Kurian highlighted the redevelopment of fishing harbours and the extension of low-interest credit to bolster fisheries infrastructure.

He announced the launch of nine integrated coastal village projects in Kerala, each to receive Rs 2 crore in central assistance for establishing modern processing units, kiosks, and community facilities. These projects are designed to promote climate-resilient and technology-driven fisheries, with the state government identifying beneficiary villages.

“India now ranks second globally in fish production and processing — a testament to the hard work and innovation of our fishing communities,” Kurian noted. He emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening fish farmers’ cooperatives and ensuring they directly benefit from ongoing welfare and development programmes.

During the event, the Minister distributed Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs), NFDP registration certificates, and vessel transponders, engaging directly with fishers to understand on-ground challenges.

Concluding his address, Kurian reaffirmed the sector’s role in achieving the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, stressing that collective effort, technology adoption, and coastal resilience will define the next era of India’s fisheries growth.