In this video, the Centre for Public Policy Research, Kochi, Kerala, presents key insights from its research on Kerala’s paddy cultivation crisis, focusing on the need for policy flexibility, integrated farming, and enabling aquaculture-led agricultural transformation.

Paddy cultivation, once central to Kerala’s agrarian economy, is steadily declining, with increasing areas of farmland turning fallow. Despite favourable natural conditions, structural and regulatory constraints have reduced profitability and limited farmers’ ability to diversify. As a result, the state is becoming increasingly dependent on other regions for essential food supplies.

This video explores:

• The declining status and economic significance of paddy cultivation in Kerala
• Rising fallow lands and increasing food dependency
• Challenges related to high input costs, labour shortages, and low returns
• Lessons from integrated paddy–fish farming models in India and across the world
• Policy recommendations to enable aquaculture, promote diversification, and improve sustainability

Featuring data-driven insights and comparative analysis, the video highlights the urgent need for an enabling, outcome-oriented policy framework that empowers farmers, improves land-use efficiency, and revitalises Kerala’s agricultural landscape through sustainable practices.

#KeralaAgriculture #Aquaculture #FoodSecurity #LandUseReform #AgriReform #SustainableFarming #PublicPolicy #CPPR