A detailed scientific study is required to assess the potential of round-the-year integrated paddy-fish farming in Kerala’s Pokkali fields, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare Ram Nath Thakur has said.

Emphasizing the need to enhance farmers’ income while ensuring ecological and socio-economic sustainability, the minister said that the full potential of Pokkali fields must be tapped in a sustainable manner.

He was responding to the demands from farmers seeking permission to allow fish farming in the area throughout the year instead of the existing seasonal regulations, during his visit to the Pokkali fields on Monday.

Replying to the farmers, Union minister said a comprehensive evaluation of the prevailing laws, environmental implications, and long-term socio-economic impacts must precede any such move.
Currently, rice cultivation is permitted in Pokkali fields from June to October, during the low-salinity period, while fish farming is allowed from November to April, when salinity levels are high.

The minister was of the view that understanding the feasibility and consequences of extending fish farming beyond the present season is essential before arriving at a policy decision. “Science-based assessments are crucial to strike a balance between productivity, livelihoods of farmers and traditional fishermen, and ecosystem conservation”, he said.

Minister’s visit was coordinated by the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George said that if the state government permits Ernakulam KVK is ready to undertake a detailed scientific and socio-economic study to evaluate the prospects of round-the-year integrated paddy-fish farming. He proposed a pilot experimental farming covering 50 acres of Pokkali fields to generate evidence-based data to guide future policy interventions. KVK Head Dr Shinoj Subramanian was also present.

Later, during his visit to CMFRI, Ram Nath Thakur urged scientific community to ensure that research outcomes translate into tangible benefits for farmers in rural areas.

The minister released CMFRI’s new product named Cadalmin BSF Green Organic Compost, using a zero-waste bioconversion technology from black soldier fly larvae. A publication on Technology for Designer Pearl Production, and products of ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology were also released during the function.

The Union minister reviewed the activities of CMFRI and the Coconut Development Board. Horticulture Commissioner Prabhat Kumar, CMFRI Director Dr Grinson George, CIFT Director Dr George Ninan and Dr Shoba Joe Kizhakudan spoke on the occasion.