Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (MS)

Kundapur, Jan 7: "In order to bring stability in fishing, to conserve marine resources and to prevent scarcity of fish, a comprehensive fishing policy will be implemented soon after thorough study on the same. Several programmes, including repairing of all jetties of coastal area and building of smaller ports, are chalked out to improve fishing and life of fishermen," said minister for muzrai, fishing and port, interior water transport Kota Srinivas Poojary.

Kotar Srinivas was speaking after inaugurating the fishing information workshop and facility distribution programme that was organized at the auditorium of Kundapur taluk panchayat by Udupi district fishing department.

The minister further said, "Giving Kissan cards to fishermen is a new concept. The aim of Kissan card is to provide capital for working fishermen. Stress is given to internal water agriculture is also given importance along with deep sea fishing.

"In order to increase the fish produce, equipment distribution, kit to traditional pati boat fishermen, Matsyavahini scheme, compensation scheme for the safety of fishermen, zero interest loans to women fishermen etc are under the pipeline.

"Matsyadarshini is carrying out its functions in 11 cities of the state. The consumers are getting fish at lower prices. Several programmes to improve the life of fishermen are chalked out by the government,” he said.

The programme was presided over by taluk panchayat president Shyamala Kundar. Kissan Credit Card, check for calamity relief, kit for fishermen and ice boxes were symbolically distributed during the event.

Senior assistant director of fisheries P Parshwanath welcomed the gathering. Chandrashekar, grade-2 assistant fisheries director compered the programme. Vote of thanks was rendered by assistant fisheries director Koderi.