Bengaluru: In a major decision aimed at supporting the fishing community, the Karnataka government has increased the Fishermen Crisis Relief Fund compensation from ₹6 lakh to ₹10 lakh. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made the announcement while inaugurating “World Fisheries Day” and “Matsya Mela 2025” at the Veterinary College campus in Hebbal on Saturday.
The Chief Minister said that, over the last two years, the state has released a total of ₹9.48 crore as compensation across 264 cases. Calling fishing “one of the toughest occupations,” he noted that more than 10 lakh people in Karnataka depend on the sector. During FY 2024–25, Karnataka produced 9.63 lakh metric tonnes of fish, ranking 7th in inland production, 5th in coastal production, and 3rd in overall national fish output.
Siddaramaiah added that traditional fishing boats are being supplied industrial oil at a subsidised rate of ₹35 per litre, while the annual diesel quota for mechanised boats has been increased from 1.5 lakh kilolitres to 2 lakh kilolitres. He further said the government has earmarked ₹3,000 crore for the holistic development of the fisheries sector, calling it a “major investment in Karnataka’s blue economy.”
To enhance market opportunities for SC/ST fish vendors, the government is offering subsidies of up to ₹3 lakh for purchasing four-wheelers. Under the ‘Matsya Sanjeevini’ scheme, women’s self-help groups are being trained and provided with fingerlings, helping rural women become successful local entrepreneurs.
Relief cheques of ₹10 lakh were also distributed to the families of deceased fishermen during the event.
The Chief Minister announced that the state will establish a dedicated Fisheries University to strengthen research, innovation, and training in the sector.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, in his address, highlighted the hardships of the profession. “Fishing requires courage, confidence, and patience. Sometimes fishermen venture into the sea for days without catching even a single fish,” he said.
Shivakumar added that the government has rejuvenated more than 10,000 lakes by providing power supply and investing several crores of rupees. He also hinted at a new tourism policy focused on boosting fish production.
Fisheries Minister Mankal S. Vaidya announced that the government has allocated ₹3,000 crore to the department and launched the “Matiya Aashraya” scheme to provide financial assistance for constructing 10,000 houses for homeless fishermen. He also revealed details of Karnataka’s first sea ambulance—costing ₹7 crore—which will provide emergency medical support at sea. The tender process for the project has been completed.
The minister further said that under the ‘Matsya Aasha Kiran’ scheme, financial assistance during the annual fishing-ban period has been doubled from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000. Additionally, ₹30 crore has been earmarked under NABARD funding for developing major fishing-route roads in the coastal districts. Scholarships for fishermen’s children, life jackets, equipment support, and lake rejuvenation works are also being provided. Karnataka’s new fisheries policy—focused on environmental sustainability, resource conservation, and economic upliftment—is nearing completion.
Over 70 stalls featuring ornamental fish, fish-based products, equipment, and seafood items were set up at the event, which drew senior officials, fisheries department staff, and hundreds of fishing enthusiasts.