Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presenting Budget 2026-27
The Karnataka government has announced measures to strengthen fisheries infrastructure in the state, including the construction of new fish markets and to establish a centre of excellence in Mangaluru.
Presenting the 2026-27 Budget, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the Government will set up fish markets in Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Bagalkot districts to address the need for well-equipped fish markets.
In its efforts to promote fish consumption and make clean and quality fish products available to the public, the Government will set up ‘Matsya Darshinis’ in Belagavi, Davangere, Hubballi and Chikkamagaluru districts of the state.
Centre of fisheries excellence
He said that a Centre of Excellence will be established at Fisheries College in Mangaluru to promote biotechnology-based industries, development of new technology and mariculture.
To encourage fishing activities, the Government has doubled the value of fisheries kits provided free of cost to fishermen from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000.
He said that ₹20 crore will be provided for the maintenance of fishing link roads in the State.
Stating that inland fisheries play a vital role in rural livelihoods and food security, he said fishermen will be trained to increase fish production in rivers, lakes, farm ponds and reservoirs and generate stable income by adopting modern technologies.
Arecanut disease control
Referring to various diseases affecting arecanut and coconut plants in Karnataka, he said community-based control measures will be carried out in collaboration with Agriculture and Horticulture universities and krishi vijnana kendras to control leaf-spot, yellow-leaf and wilt diseases affecting arecanut crop, and infestation of black-headed caterpillar and white fly in coconut crop.
Published on March 6, 2026