Kerala Jail Department to Supply Diverse Fish Varieties via Matsyafed Deal

Kerala's Jail Department has signed an agreement with Matsyafed to supply a broader range of fish to all 56 prisons in the state, addressing inmate complaints about receiving only tuna for months. The supply, set to begin in May 2026, will include sardine, mackerel, tuna, and other locally available varieties, delivered in curry-sized cuts via refrigerated transport from fishing harbours.

Under the agreement, Matsyafed will be the sole supplier, and prisons will pay rates fixed by the agency. A web portal launched on April 22 enables jail authorities to submit daily fish requirements for the 2026–27 financial year, as directed by Deputy Inspector General T.R. Rajeev. Previously, prisons relied on local tenders, which occasionally led to supply gaps.

Prisoners currently receive fish curry on Mondays and Wednesdays, mutton on Saturdays, and 400 grams of rice daily. Kerala’s prisons hold 10,716 inmates, with remand and undertrial detainees forming the majority. With Matsyafed now handling procurement, officials expect consistent availability and improved meal quality across facilities.

The new supply system will be operational across all 56 prisons by May 2026, with jail authorities required to update daily requirements on the dedicated portal. The court-mandated food standards will continue to be monitored by prison administration officials.