Chennai, Tamil Nadu: In a significant initiative aimed at empowering the fishing communities along the coastal belt of Tamil Nadu, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, along with Minister of State, Dr. L. Murugan, will launch Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX on October 7, 2023, at Thondi in Ramnad District, Tamil Nadu. This outreach program, spanning eight coastal districts, aims to connect with and understand the issues and aspirations of fisherfolk while creating awareness about government schemes available to them.
Enhancing Access to Healthcare and Livelihood Support
During Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX, Shri Parshottam Rupala and Dr. L. Murugan will interact with fisherfolk, distributing certificates and sanctions related to various government schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), Kisan Credit Card (KCC), and State Schemes. This initiative aims to provide essential healthcare access and livelihood support to the fishing communities in the region.
Reviewing Implementation of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying Schemes
The Union Ministers will also review the progress of the implementation of schemes in the areas of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying. This assessment will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that these vital schemes are effectively reaching the beneficiaries.
Stage Functions and Dissemination of Information
Several stage functions are planned during this initiative, including events at Nagapattinam Fishing Harbour on October 7, 2023, and at Poompuhar Fishing Harbour and Cuddalore Fishing Harbour on October 8, 2023. These functions provide opportunities for the Union Ministers to engage with the fishing community directly.
Additionally, literature and information on various schemes, including PMMSY, State schemes, e-shram, FIDF, and KCC, will be widely disseminated during Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX. The goal is to raise awareness about these schemes and their benefits, further empowering fisherfolk to make informed decisions.
An Outreach Program with a Purpose
Sagar Parikrama is a comprehensive outreach program designed to connect with the fishing community along India’s vast coastline. It serves as a platform to understand the unique challenges faced by fisherfolk, share experiences, and create awareness about government programs and initiatives that can improve their lives.
Officials from the Fisheries Department of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, district authorities, and senior officials from the Department of Fisheries, Government of India, will participate in Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX. The program also involves collaboration with entities such as the National Fisheries Development Board, Indian Coast Guard, Fishery Survey of India, National Institute of Fisheries Post Harvest Technology & Training, & Central Institute of Fisheries Nautical & Engineering Training.
The Rich Fisheries Heritage of Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu boasts a coastline spanning 1,076 kilometers, the second-largest in the country. The state is abundant in marine, brackish water, and inland fisheries resources suitable for both capture and culture fisheries. In 2021-22, the state’s marine fish production reached 5.95 lakh metric tonnes, with a significant export value of Rs. 6,559.64 crores. This sector supports the livelihood of over 10 lakh marine fishers through mechanized and traditional fishing crafts and enrollment in the Tamil Nadu Fishermen Welfare Board.
The fisheries sector in Tamil Nadu contributes significantly to the state’s agricultural GDP, accounting for 5.78% in 2021. Furthermore, the sector plays a crucial role in generating foreign exchange earnings, with exports valued at Rs. 6,559.64 crores in 2021-22.
Solidarity and Support for Fisherfolk
Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX is a continuation of the government’s commitment to stand in solidarity with fisherfolk, fish farmers, and other stakeholders across the coastal belt. The initiative aims to address challenges faced by the fishing community and promote their economic well-being through various fisheries schemes and programs.
This initiative focuses on responsible and sustainable fisheries practices, emphasizing the protection of marine ecosystems. By disseminating information about government schemes and facilitating access to healthcare and livelihood support, Sagar Parikrama Phase-IX aims to empower fisherfolk and enhance their quality of life.
