The Department of Fisheries Govt. of India under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) scheme inter-alia supports adoption of a cluster-based approach to enhance the competitiveness of the Pearlspot fish (Etroplus suratensis) in Kollam and Kottayam districts of Kerala with the technology support of ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), Chennai, to accelerate its growth in an organized manner.
As part of that programme, the Pearlspot fish hatchery has been established at Matsyafed Palaikari Fish Farm, Kottyam district Kerala with technical consultancy from ICAR-CIBA. The hatchery facility was inaugurated for its operation on 12 September 2026 by Adv. Abdul Gafoor, the Hon’ble Minister for Fisheries and Harbour Engineering, Government of Kerala, in the presence of Adv. Francis George, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Kottayam; Shri. Binimon, Hon’ble MLA of Vaikom, the Chairperson and Managing Director, Matsyafed; and other dignitaries and officials.
Shri. Dany Thomas, Nodal Scientist for the programme from ICAR-CIBA participated in the inaugural function and provided a technical overview of the hatchery operation procedures, including broodstock management, breeding, egg incubation, larval rearing, live-feed management, and nursery operations.
The establishment of the hatchery marks an important milestone in strengthening Pearlspot fish seed production in Kerala and promoting sustainable aquaculture through the application of scientific expertise and technical consultancy provided by ICAR-CIBA. The facility is expected to contribute to the availability of quality Pearlspot seed and support the development of Pearlspot fish farming in the state.
