The fishing industry in Tamil Nadu is currently facing a major disruption due to a fishing ban that has been put in place. The ban, which was mandated under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fisheries Regulation Act, 1983, and enforced in accordance with the Centre’s Deep Sea Fishing Regulation Act, 2001, is intended to facilitate the breeding of marine species and ensure the conservation of fish stocks. • The ban applies to mechanized and trawl boats operating from Tiruvallur in the north to Kanyakumari in the south. • The primary objective of the ban is to provide a breeding period for marine species to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks.

Despite the ban, traditional country boats and small-scale fishermen are permitted to operate within 5 nautical miles during the ban period. According to sources, there are an estimated 800 registered mechanized boats in the coastal districts of Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu. These boats are required to remain docked during the ban period. The state government has announced financial assistance of Rs 8,000 for each fisherman affected by the moratorium, covering the entire 61-day period. Strict enforcement measures are in place to prevent violators from venturing into the sea during the ban period. Those who violate the ban will face legal action. The South Indian Fishermen’s Welfare Association President, K. Bharathi, has expressed concerns about the timing of the ban. In an interview with media persons, he stated:

“In Tamil Nadu, the fishing ban is observed from mid-April to mid-June, which coincides with the summer season. However, fish generally breed during the rainy season. On the western coast of India, from Kerala to Gujarat, the fishing ban starts in June, aligning with the monsoon, which is more suitable for breeding.”

He also called for an increase in the financial assistance provided to fishermen, citing inflation and rising costs of living. Bharathi emphasized that during the ban period, fishermen carry out maintenance work on their boats or temporarily migrate to other states for alternative employment. He urged the state government to reconsider the timing of the ban and align it with the actual breeding period. He also requested an increase in financial support to address the current economic challenges faced by fishermen. • **Fisheries Conservation**: The ban aims to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks by providing a breeding period for marine species. • **Economic Impact**: The ban has disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen, who rely on fishing as their primary source of income. • **Environmental Concerns**: The ban helps to conserve marine ecosystems and prevent overfishing. Overall, the fishing ban in Tamil Nadu is a complex issue with multiple stakeholders and competing interests. While the ban aims to promote fisheries conservation and sustainability, it also raises concerns about the impact on the livelihoods of fishermen and the timing of the ban. The state government’s financial assistance and strict enforcement measures are crucial in addressing these concerns and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fishing industry in Tamil Nadu.