Inland Fisheries

Inland fisheries sector plays a significant role in food production, contributing to the livelihood and food security and generating employment.

Tamil Nadu has a vast network of inland water resources, which vitally supports fisheries activities and contributes significantly to the State's economy. Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department owns 22,056 minor irrigation tanks, ponds and ooranies, while Water Resources Department (WRD) owns 90 reservoirs and 14,306 irrigation tanks. The WRD has provided permission to the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare to manage fisheries activities in 62 reservoirs and 636 irrigation tanks. Tamil Nadu's inland fish production potential is 4.50 lakh tonnes. During the year 2024-25, the total inland fish production is 2.67 lakh MT.

♦ To enhance inland fish production, the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare is implementing a range of inland fisheries and aquaculture development schemes across Tamil Nadu.

♦ Fish seed stocking is carried out in major rivers under the River Ranching Programme, as well as in reservoirs and rural Panchayat tanks to augment fishery resources.

♦ Freshwater aquaculture is promoted through the establishment of freshwater fish hatcheries, fish seed rearing centres, and grow-out ponds.

♦ Modern intensive aquaculture technologies, including Biofloc and Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) units, are being encouraged to increase fish production and productivity.

♦ Financial assistance is provided as input subsidy for the purchase of fishing nets and coracles.

♦ Input subsidy assistance is also extended to DFFDA-registered fish farmers in Tamil Nadu to support sustainable inland aquaculture development.