Minister calls for study on integrated paddy-fish farming in pokkali fields

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 Farmers Welfare Ram Nath Thakur has said.

Stressing the need to enhance farmers’ income while ensuring ecological and socio-economic sustainability, the Minister said the full potential of pokkali fields must be tapped in a sustainable manner. He was responding to 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 (January 5). The Minister said a comprehensive evaluation of the prevailing laws, environmental implications, and long-term socio-economic impacts must precede any such move.

At present, 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.

Grinson George, Director of the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, and Shinoh Subramanian, head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, were present.