Addressing the fishermen at the Kasimedu fishing harbour, the Union State Minister Dr. L. Murugan said that the fishermen will not be affected by the new Fisheries Act. The Union State Minister stated that the Act is mainly for the welfare of the fishermen and the Act was still in consultation stage. A meeting was held with Parliamentary members of the Coastal Parliamentary constituencies, he added. Only after hearing the views of the fishermen, a decision would be taken, he said.
Work is underway to issue Kisan credit cards to fishermen. He also said that a separate ministry for fishermen has been set up only under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi.
The new Fisheries Act introduces a fishermen registration system to prevent out-of-state fishermen from entering their area. This ensures the safety of deep sea fishermen.
Preliminary work has been started to bring in a sponge farming project for the benefit of fishing women. Self Help Groups and women will benefit from this. He said the fisheries villages would be adopted by the Central Government’s Fisheries and Fisheries Construction Development Fund.and basic facilities and schools would be provided there.
Later, travelling by boat, the Minister inspected and reviewed the project regarding modernization of the Chennai port.