A decade of transformative policies has doubled India’s fish production to unprecedented levels, with 4.76 lakh KCCs channeling Rs 3,214.32 crore to fishermen by June 2025. The government’s Monday briefing spotlights how credit access is driving this aquatic revolution.
Since the 2018-19 KCC launch for fisheries, borrowers enjoy 7% interest loans—slashed to 4% on time repayment—coupled with 178 projects approved for Rs 6,369 crore under the development fund by July 2025.
Banks gain confidence from a Rs 750 crore NABARD-managed guarantee pool covering up to Rs 12.5 crore unsecured loans. The digital fisheries platform, connected to 12 major banks, has handled thousands of apps, including 19,000 remote ones, yielding 350 approvals and disbursals up to Rs 5 crore.
FY 2024-25 production soared to 197 lakh tonnes from 95.79 lakh in 2013-14. Targeting 220 lakh tonnes by 2026, it sustains three crore livelihoods and forecasts Rs 62,408 crore exports in 2025, with frozen shrimp leading to US and China markets.
Accounting for 7.26% of agricultural value addition, GST cuts to 5% on key items have spurred consumption and exports. India’s fisheries story is one of innovation, inclusion, and immense potential.