Artificial Reef Project in Kerala

Table of Contents

Context

Kerala Fisheries Department has undertaken an Artificial Reef Project to replenish marine population in the state.

The Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation (KSCADC) is implementing the project with technical support from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
- CMFRI was established by the Central Government in 1947 in Kochi, Kerala. It is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
The project is part of the Central Government’s Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
Artificial Reefs: They are human-made structures placed in underwater areas to improve marine habitats, increase fish populations and enhance scientific research. Artificial reefs can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, limestone, steel, rocks, wood and old tires.
Sea Ranching: It is a type of aquaculture which involves raising fish in hatcheries and then releasing them into the ocean.

National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)
NFDB is an autonomous organisation established in 2006. It aims to improve fish production and productivity in India. (HQ – Hyderabad). Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. It is not a Statutory Body.