<h1>Fisheries Minister Denies Offshore Mining Impact on Kerala Fishermen, Highlights Production Growth and Support Programs</h1> The Fisheries Minister rejected opposition allegations that offshore mining is impacting Kerala's fishermen, stating mining has not yet begun. Only three of 13 offshore blocks are in Kerala, located beyond 12 nautical miles. The minister highlighted government initiatives benefiting fishermen, including infrastructure development and financial support. Fish production has increased to 184.02 lakh tonnes from 95.7 lakh tonnes in 2013-14, with exports doubling to Rs 60,523 crore. Opposition members expressed concerns about the potential impact of offshore mining on fishing communities and called for impact assessment studies. DMK raised concerns about Tamil fishermen detained by Sri Lankan authorities.