Goa fisherfolk demand better tools against illegal fishing

Traditional fisherfolk in Goa are urging the state government to take action against illegal fishing. The Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott (GRE), which represents around 80,000 fishermen, presented their demands to fisheries minister Nilkanth Halarnkar. The group wants to see stricter rules applied to the Marine Fishing Regulation Act. They are asking for better monitoring of fishing activities and suggest the government buy 60 high-speed boats equipped with radar systems. These boats would track illegal fishing and help fishermen in trouble. In their demands, the fisherfolk propose creating a new enforcement team. This team would include members from both traditional and mechanised fishing groups, working alongside the fisheries department and the coast guard. They are also calling for higher fines for illegal fishing practices and stricter regulations on large fishing vessels. The GRE suggests fines should range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1 lakh, depending on the value of the fish involved. They are asking for larger penalties, up to Rs 10 lakh, for illegal activities by non-registered or foreign boats in local waters. Other suggestions include registering new fishing methods and extending the fishing ban during the monsoon. The group believes that stronger regulations will help combat illegal fishing. They emphasize the need for better enforcement to ensure that these laws are followed.