In a recent development, the Gujarat government has extended the fishing ban in the Arabian Sea by an additional two weeks, now set to last until August 15. This decision has sparked criticism from the Congress party, which describes the extension as “unfair and reckless,” citing potential financial strain on local fishermen.
A senior official from the Gujarat fisheries department confirmed on Sunday that the extension was decided in consultation with the central government. The move follows a request from the fishermen’s association, which argued that extending the ban would allow more time for fish to breed. The government also considered scientific data and current weather conditions in making the decision. It is anticipated that other western coastal states may adopt similar measures.
Previously, the annual fishing ban in Gujarat was observed from June 1 to July 31. However, the Gujarat fisheries department issued a notification on July 31 amending the Gujarat Fisheries (Amendment) Rules, 2020. The updated rules now prohibit fishing in both inland and territorial waters from June 1 to August 15, totaling 76 days per year.
Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil criticized the abrupt extension, stating that it was made without proper discussion with the fishing community. He highlighted that fishermen had already made preparations for the fishing season, including purchasing diesel, ice, and other supplies, and had traveled to their fishing locations under the assumption that the season would begin on August 1. Gohil further noted that fishermen were now left stranded and facing financial losses due to the last-minute change.
The Congress also pointed out that unlike in other states, Gujarat does not offer financial support to fishermen during the fishing ban period.
Gujarat’s Director of Fisheries, Narander Kumar Meena, defended the decision, explaining that it was made in response to requests from the fishermen’s association and based on scientific evidence. He noted that the fishing ban period was previously from June 10 to August 15 but had been adjusted to start earlier from June 1. Meena indicated that this extension was a measure to align with broader regulations and that similar policies might be adopted by other western coastal states in the future.
In the 2020-21 period, Gujarat had 36,980 registered fishing boats, and marine fishing revenue for 2021-22 was reported at ₹7,659 crore.
