The Ministry of Agriculture has finally conceded the demand of the boat owners to increase the duration of annual ban (conservation period) in both East Coast and West Coast from current year bringing cheer to fishermen. This was a long awaited demand. While accepting this, the government has promised to consider the demand for exploring imposing a uniform ban to ensure unhindered fish breeding.
The demand for conservation arose two decades ago following unhealthy competition, spurt in the number of trawlers and shrimp-centric fishing approach leading to depletion of catch. There have been allegations due to different ban period being observed in the two coasts for a shorter duration, the so-called conservation not serving the purpose in increased breeding activity.
Focus areas
Proper regulation on fishing and promotion activity on sustainable fishing and scientific exploration are the areas of focus for boat owners and the officials. The Ministry of Agriculture has decided in principle to enforce the ban this year from April 15 to June 14 in East Coast and June 15 to August 14 in the West Coast. Earlier period was from April 15 to May 31 in East Coast and June 15 to July 31 in West Coast.
Union Agriculture Minister Radhamohan Singh has already said he will hold talks with the Fisheries Ministers of various States to arrive at consensus for a uniform ban.
“It makes sense if a uniform conservation period is observed in all maritime States. We also want that the ban be applicable to all types of fishing boats – be it motorised or non-motorised to make it a grand success,” Federation of Indian Fishery Industries president Y.G.K. Murty has said.
Coastal security
The fishing industry has been pitching for implementation of three-tier coastal security viz. marine police in territorial waters of 0-12 nautical miles, Coast Guards in EEZ 12 to 200 nautical miles and Navy in international waters beyond 200 nautical miles to prevent poaching.
The government also promises to consider the demand for a uniform ban to ensure unhindered fish breeding
