What Has Changed for the 10.5 Lakh Fisherfolk in Kerala?

Thiruvananthapuram, May 16 (NationPress) Kerala Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian asserted on Friday that the prospects of the fishing community have transformed since the Vijayan administration assumed office in 2016, promising to advocate for the fisherfolk's needs.

In a conversation with IANS, Cherian expressed, "The greatest joy for me is witnessing the enhancement of educational opportunities for this previously marginalized community that had been overlooked for so long."

"Currently, every child from the registered 10.5 lakh fisherfolk has access to government-recognized educational programs. Today, over 100 medical professionals hail from fishing families. Recently, we announced that we will support any of them wishing to pursue studies abroad. At present, there are two students studying overseas with fees amounting to around Rs 90 lakh," Cherian added.

"The infrastructure at approximately 57 schools attended by fisherfolk children features cutting-edge facilities. Our goal is to provide them with top-quality education at no cost, and we are unwavering in our commitment," Cherian stated.

When queried about whether improved education might lead to fewer individuals from the fisherfolk community entering their traditional occupations, Cherian assured that they are unconcerned, as the fishing industry has undergone significant advancements and will soon embrace technology-driven practices.

"We have successfully eliminated middlemen who exploited vulnerable fishermen by purchasing their catches at unfairly low prices and reselling them at higher rates. In 46 of the 47 fishing harbors across the state, a harbor management committee is responsible for auctioning. This committee levies a 5% fee, with 4% returned to the fisherfolk, and we have also established a base price for each type of fish," Cherian explained.

"Furthermore, we have provided fishermen with electronic devices and strictly enforced regulations for those going to sea. Every individual aboard a fishing vessel must be a registered fisherman, and any unregistered person aboard will result in fines for the boat owner. If boats utilize improper fishing gear, the owner will also incur fines. This approach has significantly increased revenue, making fishing operations scientifically regulated," Cherian noted.

Every registered fisherman in Kerala receives a complimentary insurance cover of Rs 10 lakh, and by contributing approximately Rs 580 annually, they can secure an additional Rs 10 lakh in coverage.

"During my time in office, we have settled all outstanding insurance claims dating back to 2004," Cherian highlighted.

"Our government has also prioritized providing the fisherfolk with suitable living conditions. To date, 22,000 new homes have been constructed for them, with many more in various stages of development," Cherian added.

"The era of limited motor fishing boats is behind us, and our objective is to phase out traditional fishing boats. Soon, we will be implementing more technologically advanced fishing methods, requiring fewer individuals per vessel," Cherian stated.

When asked if these advancements have influenced electoral outcomes, he smiled and mentioned that the Left Front holds 41 of the 140 Assembly constituencies, which include a significant number of fisherfolk.

Cherian concluded by stating he has led the fisheries portfolio for the past four years and emphasized that these achievements would not have been possible without the full backing of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.