KOCHI, 6 January 2026: The Union government has called for a detailed scientific and socio-economic assessment to evaluate the feasibility of round-the-year integrated paddy-fish farming in Kerala’s Pokkali fields, signalling a cautious approach to any potential policy shift in the ecologically sensitive region.
Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ram Nath Thakur made the remarks during a visit to the Pokkali fields near Kochi, responding to demands from farmers seeking permission to undertake fish farming throughout the year instead of under the current seasonal framework. The minister emphasised that enhancing farmer incomes must go hand in hand with ecological balance and long-term socio-economic sustainability.
At present, rice cultivation in Pokkali fields is permitted from June to October, when salinity levels are low, while fish farming is allowed from November to April during the high-salinity period. Farmers have argued that allowing integrated paddy-fish farming across the year could significantly improve income stability. However, the minister said any such move would require a comprehensive review of existing laws, environmental implications and the impact on traditional livelihoods.
“Science-based assessments are essential to strike a balance between productivity, farmers’ incomes, the interests of traditional fishermen and ecosystem conservation,” Thakur said, adding that policy decisions must be guided by empirical evidence rather than short-term economic considerations.
The visit was coordinated by the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI). CMFRI Director Grinson George said that, subject to approval by the state government, the Ernakulam KVK is prepared to undertake a detailed scientific and socio-economic study on round-the-year integrated farming in Pokkali fields. He proposed a pilot experimental project covering around 50 acres to generate data that could inform future policy interventions.
The minister later visited CMFRI, where he urged the scientific community to ensure that research outcomes translate into tangible benefits for farmers and rural stakeholders. During the visit, Thakur released CMFRI’s new product, Cadalmin™ BSF Green Organic Compost, developed using zero-waste bioconversion technology from black soldier fly larvae. Publications on designer pearl production technology and products developed by the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology were also unveiled.
The minister also reviewed the activities of CMFRI and the Coconut Development Board, underscoring the Centre’s focus on science-led, sustainable growth in agriculture and allied sectors.
