Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 24: Nitesh Rane on Tuesday declared a strict crackdown on illegal LED fishing in the Konkan region, signalling a zero-tolerance policy to protect traditional fishermen and marine resources.

Speaking in the state assembly, Rane said the Maharashtra government is committed to shutting down unauthorised LED fishing, asserting that it will not yield to pressure from neighbouring states such as Gujarat or Goa. Out of 4,053 enforcement actions recently conducted statewide, around 2,000 targeted boats using illegal LED lights. He warned that any departmental officials found aiding such activities would face strict action.

To strengthen the local economy, Rane announced high-value projects for the Konkan belt, including:

• Establishment of an independent Fisheries University in Devgad, Sindhudurg.
• A fish seed sub-centre at Vengurla with an investment of Rs 60 crore.
• Enhancement of water transport facilities with an allocation of Rs 6,600 crore, particularly in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg.

Addressing rising fuel costs affecting fishermen, Rane revealed he has written to the Central Government of India to reclassify fishing cooperatives, enabling them to access retail pricing instead of higher “bulk consumer” rates. He also advocated implementing Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) support to stabilise fuel expenses, which have been impacted by the West Asia conflict and global supply chain disruptions.

Rane further shared a vision of positioning Maharashtra as a national leader in shipbuilding and repair, leveraging the state’s long coastline to develop a specialised maritime maintenance hub.

These initiatives are aimed at balancing enforcement against illegal practices with long-term economic development for the Konkan fisheries sector.