Q and A: ‘Fisheries needs a separate ministry, not department’

Fishermen community across the country is demanding separate ministry for the fisheries so that we could have a separate minister to address our issues. The announcement of a separate department will not create any impact. Earlier, the fisheries was a part of the department of animal husbandry, dairying and fisheries, which is one of the three departments functioning under the purview of the ministry of agriculture and farmers’ welfare. Once the department of fisheries is formed as per the announcement, it will be one of the four departments.

If the department of fisheries continues to be a part of the agriculture ministry, we will only receive Rs 350 crore for our welfare and projects. On the other hand, a separate ministry would ensure more funds and safeguard our interests. Apart from this, various institutions connected to the fisheries are functioning under other ministries. We are made to visit several ministries to get our demands fulfilled.

Yes. Even Tamil Nadu fisheries minister welcomed the announcement. Many failed to read the announcement carefully and understand. Without any clarity, they welcomed the announcement. My demand is a separate ministry for the fisheries.