National

The recent devastating floods have inflicted an estimated Rs 1,442 crore worth of damage to the fisheries sector, according to a preliminary report released by the State Department of Fisheries. The announcement was made yesterday by Deepa D Nair, Secretary of the Department of Animal Resources, Livestock Development, and Fisheries, during a press conference at the state Secretariat.

Ms. Nair emphasized that fish farmers and the fisheries department have been the hardest hit by the calamity. She indicated that the final assessment of losses might exceed the current estimate of Rs 1,442 crore, as damage reports are still being compiled.

In response to the crisis, the department has launched efforts to provide immediate relief to the affected fishermen under the Prime Minister’s Fisheries Scheme. According to initial findings, the floods have ravaged 16,312 hectares of fish farms, resulting in the loss of 54,483 metric tons of fish and 199.41 million fish fry. Four distinct projects have been initiated to extend support to the impacted fishing communities.

Ms. Nair added that funds from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) will be utilized, alongside departmental schemes, to offer aid. The government is also implementing several other measures to provide relief to those affected by the floods.

She concluded by stating that officials and field staff are actively assessing the extent of the damage through on-site inspections, working tirelessly to finalize a comprehensive damage report.

In a significant boost to the safety and operational efficiency of the local fishing community, Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra distributed 50 state-of-the-art transponders to the owners of mechanised and motorised fishing boats in Machilipatnam. These devices, each valued at Rs 37,000, are equipped with advanced satellite communication technology, allowing real-time tracking of missing boats and enhancing overall safety at sea.

Minister Ravindra emphasized the dual benefits of the transponders, noting that they will not only assist in locating boats in distress but will also enable fishermen to detect fish populations and other marine resources more effectively. The devices further allow seamless communication between vessels, making navigation and coordination on the water more efficient. This initiative aligns with the government’s goal of enhancing safety measures and modernizing the fishing industry.

The transponder distribution is part of a collaborative effort between the Central and State governments, with the Centre covering 60% of the cost and the State contributing the remaining 40%. Thanks to this subsidy, the devices are being distributed to fishermen free of charge, ensuring that all mechanised boat owners will benefit from these technological advancements. Minister Ravindra announced that the transponder rollout will continue across the state in phases, ensuring that the entire fishing community receives this vital equipment.

In addition to distributing the transponders, the minister revealed plans to establish common facility centres designed to further support the livelihoods of fishermen. These centres aim to provide resources and infrastructure for the fishing community, promoting sustainable practices and economic stability.

Minister Ravindra also highlighted the government’s ongoing support for the sector, mentioning that the state offers financial aid during the annual fishing ban and provides pensions to fishermen aged 50 and above. These initiatives reflect the government’s broader commitment to strengthening the fishing sector and ensuring the well-being and prosperity of those who depend on it.

The distribution of transponders marks a key step in improving safety at sea, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of fishermen while enhancing the efficiency of their operations. The fishing community has welcomed this move, which they see as an essential measure for the future of sustainable fishing in the region.

Top of Form

The Marine Fin Fish Hatchery Project, located at Pozhiyoor in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, operates commercially for the seed production of Cobia and Silver Pompano. This unique facility also has a sea cage demonstration farm at Jeppiaar fishing harbour, Muttom, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu.

Application Process:

1. Application Request: Candidates wishing to join the dissertation, internship, or project work programme should send a request email to marinefishrgca@gmail.com stating their research area or topics of interest.
2. For Students/Research Scholars:
   • Submit a request letter along with the following documents:
     • Recommendation/Permission Letter from the Principal/HOD/Guide.
     • CV/Biodata/Resume.
     • Scanned Copy of the College/University ID card.

3. For Non-Students:
   • Submit a request letter along with:
     • CV/Biodata.
     • Any Government-issued ID Card.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES:

Refer to Table-1 for the list of sections and types of programmes offered, including:

• Microalgal culture and enrichment techniques
• Larval and nursery rearing of Silver Pompano and Cobia
• Broodstock management and sea cage farming techniques

Note: Candidates applying for sea cage farm programmes must be proficient in swimming and are required to sign a declaration form during the registration process.

DURATION AND FEES FOR PROGRAMMES:

The fees for the dissertation, internship, or project work programmes vary based on the duration:

1. Up to 12 working days:
   • For students/research scholars: ₹5,000 (inclusive of GST)
   • For non-student candidates: ₹10,000 (inclusive of GST)
2. Up to 24 working days:
   • For students/research scholars: ₹8,000 (inclusive of GST)
   • For non-student candidates: ₹15,000 (inclusive of GST)
3. More than 24 working days and up to 48 working days:
   • For students/research scholars: ₹15,000 (inclusive of GST)
   • For non-student candidates: ₹20,000 (inclusive of GST)
4. Beyond 48 working days and up to 72 working days:
   • For students/research scholars: ₹20,000 (inclusive of GST)
   • For non-student candidates: ₹30,000 (inclusive of GST)
5. More than 72 working days:
   • Fees will be decided by a committee based on the nature of the work for both students and non-student candidates.

CERTIFICATION:

Candidates will receive a certificate after successfully completing the programme, subject to the submission of a No-dues certificate and staff recommendations.

Important Information:

• The project does not provide hostel facilities. Candidates must arrange their own accommodation, transportation, and food.

For further inquiries, contact the Senior Scientific Officer (Project in Charge) at the Marine Fin Fish Hatchery Project, MPEDA-RGCA, Pozhiyoor, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – 695513.

Mobile/WhatsApp: +91 – 9746757531

A step towards improving marine safety and reducing pollution, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has launched an ambitious project to remove long-sunken fishing trawlers, boats, and rusted scrap metal that have accumulated on the seabed near the jetties at Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour. This operation is part of a broader initiative by VPA to modernize the harbour’s infrastructure, ensuring smoother navigation, enhanced safety, and cleaner waters.

Many of the vessels and scrap targeted for removal have been lying submerged more than 10 meters deep for several decades. Over time, these sunken trawlers and boats have become hazards, blocking anchoring spaces and creating significant risks for navigation in the harbour. In collaboration with local fishermen, VPA has successfully identified six sunken fishing trawlers and 11 smaller fishing boats, which are now slated for removal. The operation, which is estimated to cost approximately ₹1.2 crore, is expected to be completed by December 2024.

The complexity of this operation requires specialized techniques and equipment. VPA is using advanced underwater videography to map out the exact locations of the sunken vessels, while high-efficiency generators and compressors are being deployed to clear the debris and lift the sunken boats from the seabed. These tools will help minimize environmental disturbance during the salvage process, ensuring that the port continues to operate efficiently while maintaining safety standards.

A Challenging Task to Ensure Safety and Sustainability

VPA Secretary T. Venu Gopal, addressing the magnitude of the project, stated that the removal of these sunken vessels is not only crucial for the safe operation of the harbour but also a vital environmental measure. “This task is highly sensitive, dangerous, and challenging due to the depth at which these boats are located and the complexity of the surrounding environment,” he explained. Despite these difficulties, VPA remains committed to executing the project with the highest standards of safety.

“Safety and security are VPA’s top priorities during this operation,” Gopal emphasized. “We have undertaken this initiative not only to safeguard the welfare of the fishermen but also to mitigate the environmental impact caused by decades of marine pollution from these sunken scraps.”

The removal of these vessels will significantly reduce the hazards faced by fishermen, who have long struggled with the obstructions at the jetties. By clearing the area, VPA aims to provide a safer and more efficient harbour environment for all users, while also contributing to the long-term sustainability of Visakhapatnam’s maritime ecosystem.

A Commitment to Harbour Modernization

In addition to improving safety and reducing pollution, this scrap removal initiative is part of VPA’s larger vision to modernize and upgrade Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour. The project aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance the harbour’s capacity, streamline operations, and improve the quality of services offered to the fishing community and other harbour users.

The removal project is expected to be completed by December 2024, marking the conclusion of a significant phase in the harbour’s development. Once finished, the harbour will not only be safer for navigation but will also benefit from cleaner waters, reduced pollution, and improved operational efficiency.

With this project, VPA reaffirms its commitment to both environmental stewardship and the development of world-class port infrastructure in Visakhapatnam, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for the local fishing industry and the marine environment.

Source: The Hindu

Sindagi, Karnataka – The Saranga Math in Sindagi has paid tribute to renowned Indian aquaculture scientist Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan by presenting him with the prestigious Bhaskaracharya award. The annual award, named in honor of the legendary astronomer Bhaskaracharya, recognizes outstanding achievements in various scientific fields.

Dr. Ayyappan, a Padma Shri awardee, has played a pivotal role in advancing fisheries and agricultural technologies in India. He has visited over 45 countries to study and share knowledge on these sectors, holding key government positions throughout his career, including Director-General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) from 2010 to 2016. He was also instrumental in India’s Blue Revolution, significantly advancing the nation’s aquaculture industry.

This honour underscores Dr. Ayyappan’s lasting contributions to India’s scientific community and his pioneering work in fisheries and agriculture.

From October 5, Goa’s traditional fishing canoes will take on a crucial role in a new coastal security initiative aimed at preventing illegal fishing by neighboring states. Under the supervision of the Directorate of Fisheries, these boats will be pivotal in enforcing cross-border fishing laws and protecting Goa’s waters.

To ensure constant surveillance, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has instructed the Goa Police to deploy six armed officers on each patrol boat, providing 24-hour coverage of the coastline. Fisheries Director Nilkanth Halarnkar confirmed that the department’s lone patrol vessel will also be part of the mission, staffed by a fisheries superintendent, two department officials, and police personnel for enforcement.

Local fishers, particularly traditional ramponkars, are being urged by Halarnkar to report any sightings of unauthorized fishing vessels from other states. “We must collaborate to safeguard our waters. Neighbouring fishermen can pose unpredictable risks, especially if they are armed, but our police are ready to address any potential threats,” he stated.

The initiative follows growing reports from the local fishing community about sightings of Malpe canoes near Baina Beach, which have raised concerns about illegal fishing operations in Goa’s waters.

On Thursday, October 3, 2024, fishermen and their families in Thangachimadam near Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, held a one-day hunger strike, protesting the Union government’s perceived indifference to the ongoing conflict between the fishermen of the state and the Sri Lankan Navy. The repeated arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen on charges of poaching have become a “regular occurrence,” according to the protesters.

Since the fishing season reopened after the annual ban in June, over 200 fishermen from Tamil Nadu have been detained by the Sri Lankan Navy, with more than 50 mechanized and country boats confiscated. Recently, Sri Lankan authorities have also begun levying fines, increasing penalties for any delays in payment, creating further challenges for the fishermen.

Last month, the situation took a grim turn when five fishermen were reportedly forced to shave their heads by Sri Lankan officials, an incident that sent shockwaves through the fishing community. Sesu Raja, a prominent leader among the fishermen, expressed disappointment over the Union government’s silence. “If Prime Minister Narendra Modi had condemned the incident,” Raja argued, “the situation could have been different.” The fishermen are demanding the immediate release of all those detained, including 17 arrested on September 30. They also urged the Indian government to initiate talks with the newly formed Sri Lankan government to find a permanent solution to this long-standing issue.

The fishing community highlighted the economic contribution of their sector, which generates hundreds of crores in foreign exchange. However, the continued arrests and mounting insecurity have left many fishermen in financial distress, resulting in psychological strain on both the fishers and their families.

Fishermen leaders and representatives from various welfare unions of mechanized and traditional boats participated in the hunger strike. Sesu Raja further noted that this conflict, ongoing for nearly four decades, has yet to be resolved. “For generations, traditional fishermen have plied their trade in the Palk Strait. Despite India’s support to Sri Lanka during its recent economic crisis, the island nation seems unwilling to reciprocate when it comes to addressing the fishermen’s plight,” he added.

In a significant move to enhance fish productivity in Pong Reservoir, also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar in the lower Kangra hills, the state Fisheries Department has initiated the release of 65 lakh fish seeds by the end of this month. The reservoir will be stocked with fish seeds of Katla, Mori, and Grass Carp species, each measuring over 70 mm in size.

The primary objective of this initiative is to support the local fishing community by increasing fish stocks, thereby improving their livelihood. As part of its annual practice, the Fisheries Department enforces a ban on fishing in all state reservoirs and water bodies from June 15 to August 15 to allow for fish breeding.

This year, the department plans to release 30 lakh Katla seeds, 20 lakh Rohu seeds, 5 lakh Mori seeds, and 10 lakh Grass Carp seeds into the reservoir. The process is being carried out at a designated spot on the banks of the reservoir under the supervision of department officials, with participation from local fisheries cooperative societies and elected representatives of gram panchayats.

The department had set a fish production target of 340 tonnes for the Pong reservoir by March last year. In comparison, 330 tonnes were produced by March of the current year.

Pong Reservoir, a man-made water body covering 24,000 hectares, is home to around 3,338 fishermen from 15 registered cooperative societies. These fishermen rely on the reservoir for their livelihoods, and during the off-season, they receive a financial relief of Rs 4,500 for two months. Additionally, they benefit from free accidental insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh, along with subsidised fishing nets and boats.

The local Fisheries Societies Association has been advocating for the reinstatement of the Centre-sponsored Neel Kranti Awas Yojana, which previously provided housing assistance to poor fishermen. However, the scheme was discontinued by the central government.

Photo Credit: Assam Forest Department/X

In a significant operation on October 2, 2024, personnel from the Assam Forest Department, the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), and the Government Railway Police Force (GRPF) successfully recovered 31 live specimens of the critically endangered Channa Barca fish. The rescue took place at Guwahati Railway Station, where authorities intercepted the smuggled fish hidden in two sealed cartons.

Channa Barca, an ornamental fish highly prized for its rarity, is valued between Rs 22-23 lakh per specimen in the international market. According to sources from the Assam Forest Department, these fish were being smuggled from Orang to West Bengal, with the ultimate destination suspected to be South Asia. The three individuals involved in the smuggling operation were arrested and remanded to judicial custody. Each fish weighed approximately 700 grams.

The Kamrup (M) Forest Department, in collaboration with Orang National Park, has launched a thorough investigation into the case. Channa Barca, known locally as Pipli Cheng or Ceng Garaka, is native to the upper Brahmaputra basin and parts of Bangladesh. Its population has been severely affected by habitat loss and illegal fishing, leading to its classification as “critically endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Authorities have yet to reveal the intended destination or full details about the origins of the seized fish, but investigations are ongoing.

Telangana government has successfully launched its prestigious fish seed distribution program across the state today, aiming to support the livelihoods of fishermen and enhance the state’s aquaculture sector. The Fisheries Department had meticulously planned and made all the necessary arrangements for this free fish seed distribution, which is seen as a significant step towards strengthening the fisheries industry. This program will provide a boost to rural economies by ensuring access to high-quality fish seeds, which will improve fish farming yields and ultimately benefit the local communities dependent on fishing for their income.

In the first phase, the program began today in the districts of Hanumakonda, Warangal, Mulugu, Mahabubabad, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Karimnagar, Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Jogulamba Gadwal. Various local leaders, including district ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs), District Chairpersons, Members of Parliament (MPs), and District Collectors, took part in the inauguration ceremonies across these districts. These leaders addressed the public, emphasizing the importance of this initiative for the development of the local fishing industry, and praised the government’s efforts in supporting the fishermen.

The program’s second phase will commence on October 7, covering the remaining 23 districts in the state. The government has already issued instructions to ensure a smooth and efficient distribution process in these areas as well. The Fisheries Department has called upon fishermen and members of fisheries cooperative societies to take full advantage of this initiative, urging them to participate in large numbers to make the program a resounding success. Director of Fisheries Priyanka Ala expressed confidence that this initiative would greatly benefit the fishing communities and improve the overall production of fish in the state.

During the launch, BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing agriculture-related sectors under the leadership of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. He explained that the fish seed distribution is part of a broader strategy to increase productivity in the fisheries sector, which is a crucial source of income for many rural families. The Minister instructed the officials to ensure that only high-quality fish seeds are distributed in the tanks and reservoirs, as this would lead to better growth rates and healthier fish populations, thereby ensuring higher profits for fishermen.

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar further noted that this year’s distribution program was particularly special because of the abundant rains that have filled reservoirs, tanks, and water bodies across the state. He expressed his hope that this would create ideal conditions for fish farming and result in a bountiful harvest, improving the financial well-being of thousands of fishing families. He likened the annual fish seed distribution to a festival celebrated by fishing communities, emphasizing that the joy of this year’s program would be even greater due to the favorable conditions.

In his remarks, the Minister revealed that he had personally appealed to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to ensure that the fish seed distribution program is carried out in all the tanks and reservoirs that have been replenished by the recent rains. The Chief Minister responded positively, immediately instructing officials to proceed with the distribution started today.

The Fisheries Department ensured that all preparations were completed on time, and the launch went off smoothly. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the state’s fish production and bring prosperity to fishing families across Telangana. By supplying high-quality fish seeds to local water bodies, the government is taking concrete steps to support fishermen and promote sustainable aquaculture practices across the region.