Tamil Nadu fishermen return with big catch but small income; seek govt’s intervention

Rameswaram: At the end of the 60-day ban on fishing in the coastal regions in Tamil Nadu, fishermen in Rameswaram and Mandapam ventured into the sea. The fishermen have come back with a big catch, but allege that it is not well-priced and are seeking government’s intervention.

Fishermen state that the government must price their catch such that it will benefit them.

The annual ban on fishing came into force on April 15 and ended on June 14 midnight. This was to help replenish fish stock. Fishermen geared up hours before midnight to catch the maximum.

Fishermen have been asked not to cross the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), follow rules, carry fishing permits and identity cards while setting out for fishing.

Boat owners had each spent a minimum of Rs 2 lakh in order to refurbish trawlers. They have even given them new nets, and they expected the new season to be trouble-free and good, he said.