India’s fisheries sector has achieved a remarkable milestone, doubling fish production over the past decade while distributing 4.76 lakh Kisan Credit Cards (KCCs) worth over Rs 3,214 crore by June 2025. This surge underscores the government’s focused efforts to bolster aquatic farming and support millions of livelihoods.
In a detailed government statement released on Monday, officials highlighted that under the fisheries credit schemes, these KCCs have empowered fishermen with accessible short-term loans at a base interest rate of 7%, reducible to 4% upon timely repayment. Launched in 2018-19, the scheme has transformed financial access for the sector.
The Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Ministry revealed approvals for 178 loan proposals totaling more than Rs 6,369 crore under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund by July 2025. To mitigate bank risks, a Rs 750 crore Credit Guarantee Fund managed by NABARD covers unguaranteed loans up to Rs 12.5 crore.
Digital innovation is accelerating growth through the National Fisheries Digital Platform, integrating 12 nationalized banks. It has processed thousands of applications, including over 19,000 from remote areas, resulting in 350 approvals and disbursals ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 5 crore.
Fish production hit a record 197 lakh tonnes in FY 2024-25, nearly double the 95.79 lakh tonnes of FY 2013-14. Aiming for 220 lakh tonnes by FY 2026, the sector supports nearly three crore people and eyes Rs 62,408 crore in exports for FY 2025, led by frozen shrimp to markets like the US and China.
Contributing 7.26% to agricultural GVA, policy measures like slashing GST on key fish products from 12% to 5% have boosted domestic consumption and global competitiveness. This blue revolution positions India as a fisheries powerhouse.