Keralam Minister for Fisheries and Harbour V E Abdul Gafoor (file photo) | Photo Credit: VIBHU H

The State government is considering the formation of a knowledge cluster to bring together research institutes and other agencies for sharing expertise, research outputs and technological innovations, V E Abdul Gafoor, Fisheries Minister has said.

He was addressing the gathering at function to mark the World Ocean Day at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) on Monday.

At a time when the fisheries sector faces numerous challenges, including climate change, the Minister said the proposed cluster would facilitate collaborative research and coordinated action to address emerging issues and develop effective solutions for sustainable fisheries management.

Climate change and ensuing weather events pose serious threats to the fisheries sector, with many fish species that were once abundant now showing a marked decline in availability, the Minister said, adding that fishery resources are coming under increasing pressure.

The Fisheries Department will lead and coordinate the collaborative efforts among institutions, aiming to strengthen scientific interventions and policy support for the sector, Gafoor added. 

CMFRI Director Grinson George presided over the function.

Earlier, the Minister reviewed the preliminary project proposal for the development of Munambam Fisheries Harbour at a stakeholder consultation. The proposed ₹200-crore project aims to equip the harbour with world-class infrastructure and facilities to ensure fishery products meet international export standards.

The meeting decided to prepare a layout modelled on Kochi Harbour, featuring 12-metre-wide roads and multi-level parking facilities for heavy vehicles. It also decided to incorporate features of a Green Smart Harbour, including environmentally sustainable infrastructure, modern waste management systems and energy-efficient facilities, besides a signal station to enhance navigational safety and harbour operations.

A decision was taken to develop a 3D project model within a month to facilitate funding under central schemes, including PMMSY and Sagarmala.

Published on June 8, 2026