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KURNOOL: On Sunday, AP Fisheries Minister Seediri Appalaraju encouraged fishermen from Kurnool and Nandyala districts to make the most of various welfare schemes provided by the state government.

The minister addressed concerns raised by fishermen during a meeting at the state guest house in Kurnool, where the president of the National Fishermen Association and members from the mentioned districts presented proposals aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of fishermen and their families.

The association advocated for the introduction of fisheries courses in universities tailored for traditional fishermen and opportunities for exporting fish to foreign markets. Representatives also requested the inclusion of their caste in the scheduled tribes’ list to access benefits and protections.

Emphasizing the importance of protecting ponds from encroachment for fishing activities, the Gangaputra Welfare Society of Gani urged the allocation of a 240-acre tank constructed in Nandyala district six years ago to the local fishermen’s society. Appalaraju assured that he would bring this matter to the government’s attention.

The meeting was attended by Rajya Sabha member Mopidevi Venkataramana, Panyam MLA Katasani Rambhupal Reddy, Kurnool MLA Dr. Hafeez Khan, and deputy directors of fisheries in Kurnool and Nandyala districts, Shyamalamma and Raghava Reddy.

The coastal areas of Udupi and Mangaluru are experiencing a substantial shortage of fish, attributed to adverse weather conditions and a sudden rise in temperatures. This scarcity has led to a notable increase in fish prices, affecting popular varieties such as sardines, mackerels, kingfish, and pomfret.

In Udupi, the fish scarcity has particularly impacted prices, with varieties like big-sized mackerel reaching Rs 250 per kilo, compared to Rs 150-180 the previous year. Medium-sized sardines are now priced at Rs 200 per kilo. Kingfish prices range from Rs 800 to 1000 for larger sizes and Rs 600 to 650 for smaller ones, while pomfret has exceeded Rs 1400 per kilo. Silver fish is at Rs 600, and Sting Ray is priced at Rs 400 per kilo. Prawn prices vary between Rs 650, Rs 500, and Rs 350 per kilo.

Local fishermen express optimism that fish abundance will return to the sea once weather conditions stabilize, attributing the scarcity to migratory patterns in search of cooler areas deep in the sea.

In Mangaluru, the fish shortage is affecting the coastal region, with many boats remaining anchored due to the sudden temperature increase and inclement weather, resulting in a significant decline in fish catch. Trawl boat owners cite the unavailability of fish in the sea due to rising temperatures, prompting most boats to stay ashore.

Retired dean of the fisheries university, Shivaprakash, attributes the shortage to the unfavorable monsoon, stating that if the monsoon extends until October, fish availability increases. Chethan Bengre, owner of the Trawl Boat Union of Mangaluru, notes the high costs associated with fishing trips and emphasizes the impact of the absence of the usual process where fishes come to the surface during cyclones and rain.

Siddaiah, joint director of the fisheries department, reassures that fish scarcity in the sea during November and December is a common occurrence, and abundant availability is expected in January, as is the norm every year.

Source: Daiji World

MUMBAI: In collaboration with the Ela Foundation, Tata Power has introduced a comprehensive photographic guide dedicated to Mahseer fish conservation. This initiative celebrates Tata Power’s enduring “Act for Mahseer” conservation program, spanning over half a century, resulting in the removal of the blue-finned Mahseer fish—often dubbed the “Tiger of the Freshwater”—from the endangered species list, as confirmed by a senior official.

The unveiled guide serves as a tribute to the remarkable conservation efforts undertaken by Tata Power, offering a detailed portrayal of the Mahseer’s life journey. From its initial stages as a young fingerling to its majestic, fully grown state, the book captures every aspect of the Mahseer’s growth. Beyond the life cycle, the guide delves into various dimensions, exploring the archaeological context of conservation, the cultural significance of Mahseer in both Indian and global cultures, taxonomy, embryology, and the existing threats faced by the species. Accompanied by stunning photographs, the guide also sheds light on the sport of Mahseer angling.

Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD of Tata Power, expressed pride in the company’s extensive legacy in biodiversity conservation within the Western Ghats. He anticipates that the guide will inspire a wide audience—from nature enthusiasts to climate action champions—to contribute actively to the creation of a more sustainable world.

N Pravin, Chief Conservator of Forests in Pune, commended the guide for emphasizing the vital importance of preserving biodiversity. He noted that the guide provides valuable insights into the captivating world of Mahseer, reinforcing the significance of ongoing efforts to safeguard this species.

Manguluru: District-in–Charge Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, revealed plans to float tenders for the third phase of the Mangaluru fisheries harbour development by the end of December. With a state cabinet approval of Rs 49 crore for this phase, the minister highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive master plan to guide ongoing development efforts.

During a meeting at the DC’s office on Saturday, Minister Rao emphasized the importance of addressing the lack of proper shelter for wholesale and retail fish sales at the harbour. He urged collaborative discussions among the port authorities, fisheries, and the Mangaluru City Corporation to finalize decisions regarding the construction of a shelter. The minister also directed the appointed contractor to ensure cleanliness is maintained at the harbour.

In addition to the reconstruction of the collapsed jetty, the project will include the development of a new auction area, multilevel storage facilities, sewage and effluent treatment plants, and the installation of CCTV cameras. The minister stressed the need for a comprehensive master plan to guide annual development works, earmarking funds for maintenance and dredging. He also mentioned that IIT Chennai would soon submit a report on the shoreline management plan.

During his visit to the harbour, Minister Rao addressed the concerns of local fishermen, who highlighted the need for a fire station at the fisheries harbour similar to the one at Malpe port. The fishermen also advocated for a sea ambulance. Security at the port, including the installation of CCTV cameras and proper maintenance of parking areas, were among the key demands presented in memorandums received by the minister.

With these ambitious plans, the third phase of the fisheries harbour development project aims to enhance infrastructure, address security concerns, and streamline operations for the benefit of the local fishing community and the city at large.

Agartala: The Union Government is reportedly considering the approval of a substantial Integrated Aqua Park project in Unakoti District, as announced by Fisheries Minister Sudhangshu Das during a press briefing at the civil secretariat.

This ambitious project aims to serve multiple purposes, functioning not only as an aquaculture facility but also as a major tourist attraction. Minister Das outlined the project’s key features, stating that designated areas for cold storage and selling sheds would be incorporated within the park. Visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate the scenic beauty of the location while learning about various fish species native to the state and the country.

During his recent visit to Delhi, Minister Das presented a comprehensive project report to Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy, Parshottam Rupala. The response from the Union Minister was reportedly highly positive, with a keen interest in establishing such a facility in the state. The proposed project has already identified land under the Chandipur assembly constituency, requiring a budget of Rs 99 crore to materialize.

In addition to the mega Aqua Park, Minister Das disclosed that several proposals were submitted to the Union Minister to enhance and streamline services provided by the Animal Resource and Fisheries departments. Funding requests were made for the restoration of approximately 250 hectares of unutilized water bodies across the state.

Minister Das emphasized that bringing these neglected water bodies and lakes into operation for pisciculture could significantly bridge the gap between production and demand in the fisheries sector.

Chennai: The state fisheries department has issued a cautionary directive to fishermen in Kasimedu, urging them to refrain from venturing into the sea until Monday due to an approaching cyclone set to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast. Approximately 50 boats that were in proximity to the Andhra Pradesh coast have been instructed to stay put until the storm subsides.

Cyclone Michaung is anticipated to make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam, accompanied by winds reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h. As the cyclone approaches the Tamil Nadu coast, Chennai is expected to witness heavy rainfall. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Tiruvallur district, predicting the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall. Additionally, Chennai and seven other districts have been warned of heavy to very heavy rain.

The cyclone is projected to reach the south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu coast by the afternoon of December 4. Fishermen are advised to exercise caution, and residents in the affected areas are urged to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions. The situation is being closely monitored, and further advisories may be issued based on the cyclone’s development.