The State budget for 2024 unveiled today has elicited a mixed response from stakeholders in the fisheries sector. Traditional fishermen in the region have voiced disappointment over the allocated provision of ₹180 crore, which they argue is insufficient to tackle the sector’s pressing issues.
Of particular concern is the absence of measures aimed at addressing emerging challenges such as enhancing fishing craft and implementing the Blue Economy policy proposed by the Central government. According to fishermen, the budget fails to acknowledge these critical areas for development.
However, there is some positivity surrounding the allocation of Rs. 10 crore for a common effluent treatment plant in the Chandiroor-Aroor zone, a move welcomed by the seafood industry. Alex Ninan of the Seafood Exporters’ Association emphasized the importance of this initiative immediately following the budget announcement.
Charles George of Matsya Thozhilali Aikya Vedhi, an independent fishermen’s union, expressed disappointment over the budget’s silence on the potential impacts of the Blue Economy policy. He also highlighted the need for strengthening cooperatives to counter the encroachment of multinational and national monopolies in deep-sea fishing.
George further noted the absence of provisions in the budget addressing ecological and environmental concerns related to increasing fish production through aquaculture. Additionally, he criticized the lack of focus on modernizing and improving the standards of traditional fishing boats to meet evolving challenges at sea.
Critics argue that the state budget primarily aligns with national policies but overlooks the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen engaged in traditional fishing practices. This disparity raises concerns about the adequacy of support provided to sustain and develop the fisheries sector in Kerala.
