Fishermen’s operators, representing about 3,600 trawling ships in the State, turned to the state government to help them solve problems from rising fuel costs, growing debts and the latest tariffs on Indian seafood on the US market.
The latest business shock from the US market led to uncertainty in export markets where Indian seafood is required. The exporters were forced to reduce the purchase price that thrown the boat operator into debt into more serious problems, said Joseph Xavier Kalapurackal, the General Congressor of the Association of Fishermen’s Operations All Keral.
He claimed that many boat owners had debts ranging from 20 to 25 lakh. They cannot get back the money they spent on the construction of ships, as well as the cost of everyday operation, Mr. Kalapurackal added. While the biggest reason for the failure for fishing boats is the serious impact of climate change, the operation is also affected by rising fuel costs, while the government is not willing to limit CESS to diesel.
The impact of climate change
One of the loudest requirements of boat operators is that while exporters are gaining incentives such as a reduction in excise tax and investment subsidies, they are not eligible for such concessions. In addition, instead of encouraging traw boat operators, to catch fish for exports, the Krala authorities are trying to defend fishing operations, they said.
Boat operators called on the government to re -evaluate their decision not to renew the registration and licensing of wooden ships, which are 12 or more years old and steel ships that are 15 years or more. These ships should be checked and their efficiency is ensured instead of storing the blanket, Mr. Kalapurackal added.
Published – April 19 2025 06:53
