Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (MS/HB)

Udupi, Oct 8: "By installing satellite-based navigation system to deep-sea fishing boats, it helps the fishermen to get alert at the right time. In addition, it also gives an indication of getting a good bounty of fish. The government should help fishermen to install this new technology, which will resolve the danger and difficulty of the life of fishermen when they are in the deep sea," urged Nitin Ramakant, member of the District Cooperative Fish Sellers' Federation.

Speaking at a press conference in the city on Wednesday, Ramakant further said, "Fishermen of the coast have not forgotten the tragedy of Survarna Tribhuja boat that occurred one and a half years ago. Presently, the communication technology that is used in deep-sea fishing is not working effectively. The sinking of some boats recently is proof of this.

"In the future, if we have to tap the benefits from the fishing industry, we have to install modern communication technology. Mainly, we do not have a sea ambulance facility in Karnataka. The union government has to provide this immediately. The union government has to provide financial aid as well as complete details of the technology to the fishermen.

"The government should bring separate schemes for fishermen. The emergency loan facility, which is given to fishermen under the Kisan scheme, is given by banks to only those who possess RC for boats. Due to this, eligible fishermen are deprived of the scheme. The emergency loan facility should be available to all the fishermen, who are registered with the fishermen's cooperative association."

Speaking on the occasion, Raviraj, president of Malpe Tandelu boat association said, "Sagar ambulance, which has a well-equipped medical facility, including a doctor, that has 8,000 litre of diesel capacity should be started in the deep-sea area. An agreement should be made between Maharashtra and Karnataka governments and emergency treatment should be provided for fishermen without conducting any inquiry."

Ganapati Mangre, president of the Uttara Kannada District Cooperative Fish Sellers' Federation said, "Injustice is meted out to fishermen during the Suvarna Tribhuja boat mishap by the earlier government. No attempt is made to bring out the mortal remains of the seven people who died inside the boat in the deep sea. At least now this should be done. At least 60% of local fishermen should be recruited in the coastguard force. As they know the inflow of sea, they will be able to save the lives of the fishermen during emergency situations in the sea. In addition, the coast guard force officers should not waste time on the shore. They should patrol the deep sea."