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Shri D. V. Swamy, IAS, Chairman of the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), met with Shri K. Atchannaidu, the Hon’ble Minister for Fisheries, and Shri A. Babu, IAS, Secretary for Horticulture, Fisheries, and Aquaculture, to discuss a new plan to increase marine product exports from Andhra Pradesh.

The key measures discussed in the meeting include several important steps to improve the industry. One major focus is on registering and regulating shrimp farms to ensure traceability and meet international standards. This will help boost consumer trust and streamline the export process.

Another important part of the plan is to increase the production and export of value-added seafood products. By using new technologies, the plan aims to improve productivity and ensure that shrimp production is free of harmful residues. This will help Andhra Pradesh compete better in global markets.

The plan also includes promoting integrated farming of different species, such as Tilapia, to diversify and strengthen the marine export sector. This approach will not only enhance export growth but also improve farm efficiency.

Dr. M. Karthikeyan, Director of MPEDA, along with senior officials from MPEDA and the Fisheries Department of Andhra Pradesh, were also present at the meeting. Their efforts show a strong commitment to advancing Andhra Pradesh’s marine export industry and boosting the local economy.

Traffic came to a standstill for over two hours at Kalamukku Junction on Friday evening as traditional fishermen staged a dramatic protest against the use of banned pelagic trawls by illegal fishing boats. This crucial junction connects mainland Kochi to the northern islands through the Goshree Bridge, and the blockade significantly impacted vehicular movement.

The protest erupted when fishermen, frustrated by government inaction, took to blocking the route and even laid siege to the shipping channel for 10 minutes. The demonstrators were responding to the government’s failure to address the issue of trawling boats using banned pelagic nets, which are causing severe depletion of fish stocks along Kerala’s coast.

Earlier in the day, the fishermen had intercepted two trawling boats, **Star Meen** and **St Ann**, both of which were found using pelagic nets within the state’s territorial waters. These boats were handed over to the fisheries department. In response to the ongoing issue, the fisheries department director has scheduled a meeting with the traditional fishermen for Saturday to discuss their concerns.

“Pellagic nets are banned by both the state and Union governments due to their destructive impact on marine life,” explained P V Jayan, General Secretary of the Kerala Parambaragatha Matsya Thozhilali Samithi. “These nets catch vast amounts of fish, including juveniles, and are depleting our waters. Despite our warnings, the authorities have done little to curb this practice, forcing us to take drastic measures.”

The protestors had also reported spotting four boats using banned nets within 12 nautical miles, the area reserved for traditional fishermen. Although they managed to apprehend two boats, others managed to evade capture.

The traffic block at Kalamukku Junction began around 2 p.m. and was lifted by 4 p.m. after intervention by the fisheries deputy director for Ernakulam zone. The temporary closure affected all vehicles except ambulances and emergency services.

The fishermen’s action underscores the growing frustration among local fishing communities over the government’s perceived indifference to their plight. As the fisheries department prepares for a crucial meeting, the outcome will be closely watched by both the fishing community and local residents who rely on this vital transportation route.

Mechanised fishing boats docked at Thoothukudi Fishing Harbour observed a strike on Monday, protesting against the recent increase in ice-bar prices. The cost of ice-bars, essential for preserving fish catches, has risen from ₹140 to ₹150 per bar following a recent hike in power tariffs by the Tamil Nadu Government.

The price increase has triggered a wave of discontent among the 265 mechanised boats operating out of Thoothukudi. Each boat typically requires 35 ice-bars daily to keep their catches fresh during long fishing trips, making the price hike a significant strain on their operational budgets.

Local fishermen argue that the price rise exacerbates existing financial pressures, with the recent power tariff hikes compounding their economic struggles. “The cost of ice-bars is a crucial part of our operational expenses. With the recent increase, we’re facing a challenging situation,” said a representative from the Thoothukudi Fishermen’s Association.

The strike has resulted in a halt of fishing activities from the harbour, affecting the local seafood supply and economy. Fishermen are calling for government intervention to address their concerns and mitigate the impact of rising operational costs.

As the strike continues, the fishing community remains hopeful for a resolution that will help alleviate the financial burden and ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods.

In a significant move, top officials from the Indian Navy, Customs, Fisheries Department, and police held an interactive session with fishermen in Ramanathapuram district on Tuesday. The meeting focused on urging fishermen to adhere to safe fishing practices, including staying within the Indian Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and avoiding venturing beyond territorial waters. Officials emphasized the risk of surveillance and potential action by Sri Lankan Navy personnel, who enforce their laws strictly.

The officials suggested alternative fishing methods, such as deep-sea fishing, and stressed the importance of obtaining tokens from the Fisheries Department before entering the Palk Bay. Simranjeet Singh Kahlon, the district collector who chaired the meeting, highlighted various government welfare measures available to the fisherfolk and encouraged them to take full advantage of these initiatives.

Fishermen representatives, including Bose, Sagayam, and Karl Marx, voiced concerns about the current restrictions, which require them to return to shore within 24 hours. They also requested government intervention to secure a minimum support price for their catch.

The fishermen expressed deep concern over the arrest of 122 Tamil Nadu fishermen and the impoundment of 11 mechanized and eight country boats by Sri Lankan Navy personnel since June 15, when the annual fishing ban was lifted. They called for urgent government action to protect their livelihoods.

The session was led by Indian Navy official Vijay Kumar Narwal, Customs Superintendent Mahesh Kumar Meena, DSP Uma Devi, and Deputy Director of Fisheries Prabhavathi, among others.

SOURCE: THE HINDU

In a vibrant celebration of Narali Pournima, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant unveiled a series of new initiatives designed to enhance the local fishing industry and create job opportunities. The event, held on Monday, featured the launch of the Matsya Vahini e-rickshaws and Matsya Ahar fish kiosks under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

The launch event was attended by Fisheries Minister Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar, Fisheries Secretary E Vallavan, and other dignitaries. During his speech, CM Sawant emphasized the significance of these initiatives in improving fish transport and retail in the state. He announced the distribution of 10 environment-friendly Matsya Vahini e-rickshaws to facilitate the efficient transportation of fish from landing sites to markets.

In addition, Sawant revealed the sanctioning of 25 Matsya Ahar retail fish outlets across Goa. These kiosks are set to provide fresh fish to consumers while creating employment opportunities for local youth. The Chief Minister also highlighted plans for establishing a Fisheries College in Goa, aimed at equipping the next generation with skills and knowledge to further the state’s fisheries sector.

“These initiatives are designed to bolster employment and stimulate economic growth within our community,” Sawant said. “We are committed to fostering a vibrant future for Goan youth and enhancing our local fishing industry.”

The Narali Pournima festival, marking the end of the monsoon season, is a significant occasion for fishermen in the region as they resume their fishing activities. The event was celebrated with traditional fervor, and Sawant extended Raksha Bandhan wishes on social media, highlighting the festive spirit of the occasion.

Earlier in the day, Sawant also celebrated Raksha Bandhan with his sisters from the Bharatiya Janata Party Mahila Morcha of Goa, expressing his best wishes for a joyous and memorable festival.

With these new initiatives, the Goa government aims to support the local fishing community, boost the economy, and offer better opportunities for employment and education, thereby contributing to the overall development of the state.