The Sri Lankan Navy has been actively patrolling the sea, targeting illegal fishing activities. The fishers, who were caught in the act, are now facing legal proceedings.
This has led to a complex situation where the fishers’ traditional fishing grounds are now contested by both the fishing community and the coastal state. The conflict has escalated due to the state’s efforts to protect its territorial waters, which are crucial for its economic and environmental interests. The fishers, on the other hand, argue that their livelihoods depend on these waters and that they have been practicing these fishing methods for generations. The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of various stakeholders, including local communities, environmental groups, and government agencies.
The meeting was organized by the Tamil Nadu Fishermen’s Association (TNFA) and the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department. The primary concern raised was the impact of purse seine fishing on the livelihood of traditional fishermen. The TNFA has been actively campaigning against this practice, which they believe is detrimental to the local fishing industry. The Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department has been urged to take action against purse seine fishing. The meeting also discussed the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect the traditional fishing methods and the marine ecosystem.
