The Kerala Budget for 2024 has received a mixed response from the fisheries sector, particularly from traditional fishermen. Expressing disappointment, they argue that the allocated ₹180 crore is insufficient to address critical issues faced by the industry. Notably, the budget lacks provisions for combating new challenges, such as upgrading fishing craft and addressing the Blue Economy policy proposed by the Central government.
While the seafood industry welcomes the ₹10 crore allocation for a common effluent treatment plant in the Chandiroor-Aroor zone, fishermen emphasize the need for measures to modernize traditional fishing boats and enhance standards to meet evolving challenges at sea.
Critics contend that the budget neglects the impact of the Blue Economy policy and fails to strengthen cooperatives against emerging monopolies in deep-sea fishing, highlighting the gap in addressing ecological and environmental concerns related to fish production through aquaculture.