KOCHI, 11 June 2025: Describing seaweed farming as a promising venture in the fisheries sector, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying George Kurian has said that it presents a significant livelihood opportunity for the coastal population, especially women.
He was addressing farmers, fishermen and beneficiaries of different central schemes during the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) campaign held at Kavaratti Island by Krishi Vigyan Kendra -Lakshadweep.
The minister cited the substantial increase in income of women in Tamil Nadu through seaweed cultivation as a testament to its viability. Lakshadweep Islands are exceptionally well-suited for seaweed cultivation, he said, adding that the Union Government has designated the archipelago as a 'Seaweed Cluster.' This move would help boost the development of seaweed farming and its utilization across the region, the minister added. He lauded ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) for its technical guidance in promoting seaweed cultivation in Lakshadweep. The KVK-Lakshadweep of the CMFRI was recently selected as the national best for supporting wide-spread adoption of seaweed farming technology among a range of other activities.
Referring to the immense economic potential of the islands, Minister Kurian highlighted seaweed farming, fisheries, coconut cultivation, and tourism as key drivers for development in the region.
He underscored Lakshadweep's high potential for fisheries and deep-sea fishing, assuring full government support to harness these resources. “Strengthening of tuna fisheries in the region will greatly support the blue economy and local livelihoods. The government is planning to facilitate innovative vessels equipped for real-time processing alongside fishing operations, to enhance the market value of Lakshadweep tuna”, the minister said.
“The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan campaign aims to educate farmers on the latest technologies in agriculture and allied sectors. This initiative is part of a broader vision to achieve overall development in the agriculture sector, contributing to India's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047”, George Kurian said.
During the campaign, advisories for agriculture and fisheries were provided to the assembled farmers. The Union minister distributed small machines and machinery to farmers and farmer groups supported by KVK, Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) of ICAR-CMFRI and PMMSY were distributed to the farmers. The Minister visited the ornamental fish hatchery established by CMFRI in Kavaratti with the support of NCDC, New Delhi. A Field Lab of the CMFRI functions in the Lakshadweep for the research and development activities of marine fisheries in the region. The Minister appreciated the establishment of such a hatchery in Kavaratti for the promotion of entrepreneurship and development.
Dr. P. N. Ananth, Principal Scientist and Head, KVK-Lakshadweep of CMFRI presented the report on VKSA. Dr. Giri Sankar IAS, Collector and Shri. Raj Tilak, IFS, Secretary (Agriculture) under UT Administration of Lakshadweep attended the function.
