Media Release

Udupi, Nov 29: A delegation from the Malpe Fishermen’s Association, led by Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, met Goa fisheries minister Nilkanth Halarnkar to discuss challenges faced by coastal Karnataka fishermen near state borders.

The delegation raised concerns over confusion surrounding fishing limits in border areas and the hefty fines imposed when fishing boats inadvertently cross into Goa's territorial waters.

MLA Yashpal Suvarna emphasized the lack of clarity on nautical mile limits between Karnataka and Goa, which has resulted in boat confiscations and significant penalties, causing distress to fishermen in Karnataka's coastal districts.

Malpe Fishermen’s Association president Dayananda Suvarna highlighted that variations in fishing regulations between the two states have posed major difficulties for the fishing community.

Responding to the concerns, minister Nilkanth Halarnkar acknowledged the issues and stressed the need for a unified inter-state fishing policy along the western coast. He assured the delegation that a meeting of fisheries ministers from western coastal states would be convened to propose a uniform fishing policy through the central government, offering a long-term resolution.

The meeting was attended by Karnataka fisheries department director Dinesh Kaller, Malpe Mechanized Trawl Boat Fishermen’s Co-operative Association president Ramachandra Kunder, vice president Prakash Bangera, Malpe Deep Sea Trawl Boat Association president Subhash Mendon, and former president of the 370 Boat Fishermen’s Association Kishore Kumar, among others.