A delegation of fishermen from Maharashtra and Gujarat, representing the Indian West Coast Fishermen Federation, met with Maharashtra's Minister of Fisheries, Nitesh Rane, at Mantralaya on Tuesday. The delegation requested an extension of the monsoon fishing ban in Maharashtra until August 15, aligning it with the existing policy in Gujarat.
The Gujarat government currently enforces a fishing ban from June 1 to August 15, which, according to fishermen, has significantly boosted sustainable fishing and fish stock regeneration. Traditional fishermen are now demanding a similar timeline for Maharashtra, citing not only ecological benefits but also safety concerns due to frequent stormy conditions and rough seas during the first half of August.
The delegation pointed out that adverse weather in early August often poses serious risks to the lives of fishermen and damage to their boats. Hence, extending the ban would help prevent accidents and financial losses.
Minister Nitesh Rane acknowledged the legitimacy of the demand and assured the delegation that he would present a proposal to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to extend the fishing ban in line with Gujarat’s policy. He further stated that a joint delegation comprising fisheries ministers from both states, along with representatives of traditional fishermen, will soon meet the Union Fisheries Minister to push for a uniform fishing ban across the entire west coast from May 15 to August 15 starting next year.
Among the key representatives present were Devendra Damodar Tandel (Mumbai), Sanjay Koli, Vinod Patil, and Nayana Patil from Maharashtra, and Veljibhai Masani, Bhagubhai Solanki, Rakeshbhai Kuwara, Kanhaiyalal Solanki, Sunilbhai Gohel, Rambhai Solanki, Narsibhai Baraya, and Rameshbhai Badarshahi Sahil from Gujarat.
