POLICY NOTE - 2005-2006 FISHERIES DEPARTMENT

INTRODUCTION Fisheries has been recognized as a powerful income and employment generator as it stimulates growth of a number of subsidiary industries and is a source of cheap animal protein. It is an instrument of livelihood for a large section of economically backward population of the country. Fisheries is the only sector that offers cheap and good animal protein to the people, particularly to the economically weaker sections of the society and thereby it serves as a means to ensuring national food security. It is also a major contributor of foreign exchange earnings for several countries including India through export. The potential forward and backward linkages through boat building, construction of fishing harbours, fish processing etc., contribute further to diversification and strengthening of the regional and national economy.

The country with the long coastline of 8118 Km. has an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending to 2.02 million Sq.Km. comprising of 0.86 million Sq.Km. on the West Coast, 0.56 million Sq.Km. on the East Coast and 0.60 million Sq.Km. around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. , with its 1076 Km of coastline, 0.19 million Sq.Km. of EEZ and a continental shelf of about 41,412 Sq.Km. is a leading State both in culture and capture fisheries. It has emerged as a major exporter of marine products. However, the vast potential available in Marine and Inland Fisheries including Aquaculture is yet to be optimally exploited for augmenting fish production. The inland fisheries sector has about 3.7 lakhs ha of water spread area comprising reservoirs, major irrigation and long seasonal tanks, short seasonal tanks and ponds, estuaries, backwaters etc. which are suitable for both capture and culture fisheries. About 5,000 ha of water-spread area is being utilised for fresh water aquaculture under the programmes of the Fish Farmers Development Agencies.

1 In Tamil Nadu, there are 56,000 ha. of brackish water area available for aquaculture production, of which, about 4455 ha are actually under aquaculture production. Since the establishment of the Department of Fisheries in 1907, it has been functioning with the objectives of developing and conserving the fishery resources and ameliorating the socio-economic conditions of the fisher folk in the State who depend upon fishery as their major source of livelihood.

Administrative Set up: The Director of Fisheries is the Head of the Department and he is also the Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation Limited, an undertaking of the Tamil Nadu Government besides acting as the Functional Registrar of the Tamil Nadu State Apex Fisheries Cooperative Federation. There are six regions headed by Regional Joint Directors of Fisheries / Deputy Directors of Fisheries who monitor and supervise the work of Assistant Directors of Fisheries implementing various fishery development schemes including fishermen welfare schemes. At present three Additional Directors in IAS cadre are also functioning in Chennai, Nagapattinam and Thoothukudi (at Nagercoil) Regions coordinating the Tsunami relief operations.

Fisheries Policy – Objectives The major objectives are as follows:- 1. To encourage fishermen to exploit the under-utilized fishery resources to reduce fishing pressure in the inshore areas. 2. To augment aquatic resource production in the inshore areas by conservation measures, stock enhancement and establishing of artificial reefs etc., along the coast. 3. To promote sustainable eco-friendly coastal aquaculture. 4. To strengthen the infrastructure facility for fish landing and marketing. 5. To uplift the socio-economic condition of the fisher folk through welfare measures and by generating employment opportunities for fisher folk. 6. To modify the present fisheries legislation to suit to the present condition.

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1. Fisheries Development Mission The rationale for Fisheries Development Mission in the State is to enhance production of fish and sustain the productivity of fishermen, fish farmers and fishing industry, sustain livelihoods and generate further employment for coastal and rural poor, improve the socio-economic condition of the traditional fishermen and fish farmers, protect the interest of the traditional fishing communities and improve the technology and asset-base of the traditional fisher folk and augment fish production for both domestic and export markets. To achieve the above goals, the Government of Tamil Nadu have embarked on a Fisheries Development Mission from 2002. This Mission will evolve strategies and implement suitable measures for fisheries development by increasing marine and inland fish production on sustainable basis. Major objectives of Fisheries Development Mission (1) Integrated approach to reservoir fisheries development (2) Popularization of integrated fish farming in tanks and ponds.

(3) Development of coastal areas for aquaculture. (4) Development of coastal marine fisheries. (i) Stock enhancement (ii) Artificial reefs (5) Post-harvest support and marketing (i) Development of harbours and fish landing centres (ii) Retail marketing infrastructure

(6) Sea safety measures (i) Life floats / jackets (ii) GPS sets (Global Positioning System) (7) Strengthening of R & D facilities

The Mission Programme outlined above will be implemented at an estimated cost of Rs.6107.50 lakhs in a phased manner.

3 2. Marine Fisheries 2.1 Motorization of Traditional Crafts With a view to extend financial assistance to fishermen for motorization of traditional crafts, the Government have increased the subsidy from Rs. 10,000 to Rs.20,000 for purchase of outboard motors to be fitted in the traditional crafts. During 2004-2005 the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 3.60 crores including 50% State’s share of Rs. 1.80 crores for distribution of 1800 outboard motors. This scheme will be continued during the Annual Plan 2005-2006.

2.2 Reimbursement of Central Excise Duty on High Speed Diesel Oil

To alleviate the sufferings of the mechanised fishing boat operators, the Government reimburse the Excise duty paid as subsidy towards the purchase of HSD Oil to bring down the running cost of mechanised fishing boats. As per the present norms, the State Government offer a sum of Re.0.30 per litre and the Central Government offer a sum of Rs. 1.20 per litre and a total sum of Rs.1.50 per litre towards diesel subsidy is paid to the fishermen. During 2004-2005, the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 457.80 lakhs for implementation of the scheme including the State share of Rs. 91.56 lakhs. Nearly 5000 families will be benefitted under this scheme. This scheme will be continued during 2005-06 availing the assistance from Government of India.

2.3. Sales Tax Exemption on sale of Diesel Oil used by Fishermen The fishermen of Tamil Nadu involved in fishing activities with mechanised boats and motorised country crafts are facing great difficulties in operation of their boats due to increasing price of diesel oil. Hence, considering the representations received from the Fishermen Associations, for the first time in the history of Tamil Nadu the Hon’ble Chief Minister has announced 100% exemption of payment of Sales Tax for the purchase of High Speed Diesel Oil by fishermen to be used for fishing activities. Accordingly, the price paid by fishermen for Diesel is reduced by

4 Rs.5.33 for every litre of diesel purchased by fishermen for operation of mechanised boats and motorised traditional crafts. The annual financial commitment of the State Government will be approximately Rs.51.00 crores. 20,200 fishermen families will be benefitted under this Scheme. This scheme will also be continued during the financial year 2005-2006.

2.4 Stock enhancement of inshore fishery resources a. Sea Ranching

Along with excess fishing pressure in the inshore region, the coastal fish habitants are also affected by the industrial, urban and agricultural pollution, landfill, damming and diversion of rivers, reduction in mangrove cover, sedimentation, etc. Together, these anthropogenic activities have adversely affected the fish stocks, resulting in reduction and diminishing fish populations.

In order to redress the problems of over-exploitation and depleting resources, sea ranching of commercial shrimp species is being launched under Fisheries Development Mission. During 2004-2005, the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.128.40 lakhs to stock 5.00 lakhs of 15-20 PL Seeds at 12 places in five coastal districts of Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur and Thoothukudi. For creating awareness among the fishermen one day workshop on marine sea ranching was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for Fisheries at Image Hall, Raja Annamalaipuram on 16.12.2004 and sought cooperation from the representatives of fishermen community, Central Institutes like Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture (CIBA), Aquaculture Authority and eminent scientists to make the programme of sea ranching a great success.

b. Artificial reef An artificial reef is a recycled, underwater habitat for marine life and is helpful in increasing the productivity of the ecosystem. It has been widely recognized that installation of artificial reefs would be helpful for breeding of fish and also to artisan fishermen to exploit the fish stocks without spending much time and energy. These

5 man-made reefs constructed and deployed in the sea today can still be used functional for decades. Under this programme, the Department of Fisheries has already constructed an artificial reef with the assistance of the M/s. Swaminathan Foundation, Chennai during the year 2004 and deployed in Thoothukudi shore area at the cost of Rs.5.00 lakhs for enhancement of fish production. Hence, during 2004-2005 the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 150.00 lakhs for providing 10 artificial reefs along the coastal areas of the state.

2.5. Construction of Fishing Harbours Development of infrastructure facilities a. Chinnamuttom The fishermen are utilizing Chinnamuttom Fishing Harbour at Kanniyakumari District which was constructed under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme in 1994. Since the existing berthing facilities are inadequate because of the increased number of mechanised boats, a second phase project costing about Rs.19.10 crores has been prepared and the same had been referred to Director, Central Institute of Coastal Engineering for Fishery (CICEF), Bangalore. It is also under consideration by the Government to constitute an Evaluation Committee in order to conduct Post Evaluation Study for the Project.

b. Rameswaram The project cost was finalised by Director, CICEF, Bangalore for a sum of Rs.48.69 crores and submitted Techno-Economic Feasibility Report to Govt. of India. The District/State Coastal Zone Management Authority has cleared the project and recommended to the National Coastal Zone Management Authority for issuing of environmental clearance of the project. During the meeting of the National Coastal Zone Management Authority held at New Delhi during November 2004, the Committee did not accept the Environmental Impact Assessment/Environmental Management Plan Studies (EIA/EMP) prepared by the Department of Fisheries and instructed to prepare EIA/EMP once again through a reputed agency like National Institute of Ocean Technology/National Institute of Oceanography (NIOT/NIO). Action is being taken to prepare EIA/EMP through NIOT for the project.

6 c. Pazhayar The CICEF, Bangalore has prepared a Techno-Economic Feasibility Report for a sum of Rs.10.60 crores for construction of a Fishing Harbour at Pazhayar. As per the directions of the Government of India, the revised estimates is under preparation based on the current schedule of rates. Further, as advised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, the Superintending Engineer, Fishing Harbour Project Circle (FHPC), Chennai is preparing revised cost estimate deleting the components which require environmental clearance.

d. Mallipattinam The CICEF, Bangalore has prepared a Techno-Economic Feasibility Report for a sum of Rs.7.50 crores for construction of a Fishing Harbour at Mallipattinam. As per the directions of the Government of India the revised estimate is under preparation based on the current schedule of rates.

e. Poompuhar Tentative estimate for Rs.40.00 crores had been prepared for construction of a Fishing Harbour at Poompuhar. The NIOT, Chennai has been requested to conduct Model Studies at Poompuhar during 2004-2005.

f. Colachel Colachel is one of the locations identified and included in the Master Plan prepared by the CICEF, Bangalore for development of fishing harbour in Tamilnadu in addition to the existing harbours. The CICEF has conducted pre feasibility study during 1997 and submitted a report to Government of India. Based on the request of the Government, the Director, NIOT, Chennai has inspected the site and requested for provision of funds for conducting model studies. Accordingly, a total sum of Rs.25.00 lakhs has been remitted to the NIOT, Chennai to conduct model studies at Poompuhar and Colachel.

7 g.Thengapattinam For establishment of a fishing harbour at Thengapattinam in Kanniyakumari District, sub-soil investigation work has been completed. The Director, CICEF, Bangalore is preparing the Techno-economic Feasibility Report for construction of a fishing harbour at Thengapattinam. In the meantime, confirmation on the alignment of breakwater was received from NIOT and based on the same, revised cost estimate has been prepared for a sum of Rs.39.50 crores and sent to the Director, CICEF, Bangalore for his technical concurrence. Further, as suggested by the Director, CICEF for Fishery, Bangalore, action is being taken to conduct Wave Flume Test through Institute of Hydraulics and Hydrology, Poondi.

h. Muttom An amount of Rs.6.00 lakh was disbursed to NIOT for conducting Model Studies at Muttom. Interim Model study report had been received from the NIOT and the same is under scrutiny.

i. Chennai and Thoothukudi Under Assistance to States for Developing Export Infrastructure and Allied Activities Scheme (ASIDE), the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.12.42 crores for upgradation of the Fishing Harbours at Chennai and Thoothukudi to International Standards.

j. Rajakkamangalamthurai For construction of a Fishing Harbour, detailed estimates are under preparation for conducting model studies at Rajakkamangalamthurai in Kanniyakumari District.

k. Thondi and Rameswaram To repair a Jetty at Rameswaram in Ramanatha-puram District, Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 20.00 lakhs during the year 2004-2005. Steps will be taken for carryout this work. As regards repairs to Thondi Jetty, detailed estimates are under preparation.

8 I. Fishing Harbours / Landing Jetties affected by Tsunami The Tsunami which devastated the coastal areas of Tamilnadu on 26.12.2004 has caused severe damages to the lives of fishermen and fishing implements etc., The Fishing Harbours / Fish Landing Jetties were also partly damaged. The Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 5.635 crores for restoring the Fishing Harbours/Landing Jetties at Pazhayar, Chinnamuttom, Chennai, Thondi, Nagapattinam, Arcottuthurai, Cuddalore, Mudasalodai, Thoothukudi, Punnakkayal and Kottaipattinam and Rs.1 Crore for dredging 4 river bar mouths viz Kaduvaiyaru, Uppanaru, Ammanar and Vettar in Nagapattinam District.

m. Construction of 10 Fish Landing Centres in Tamil Nadu The Government of India have conveyed their administrative approval for construction of 10 fish landing centres with all infrastructure facilities in Tamil Nadu at a total cost of Rs.13.23 crores. Out of the 10 selected places, the work had been completed at 5 places. In other places, the works are in progress except Veerapandianpattinam.

n. Construction of new Fish Landing Centres in Tamil Nadu It is under consideration by the Government to establish Fish Landing Centres in the following 9 places in Tamilnadu at a total cost of Rs.15.28 crores availing the 50% assistance from Government of India. On receipt of approval from the State Government and the Government of India the work will be taken up for execution.

1) Keelavaippar - Thoothukudi District 2) Tharuvaikulam - “ 3) Cuddalore Periakuppam -Kancheepuram District 4) Periamangadu - Tiruvallur District 5) Annamalaicherry - “

9 6) Chinna Erwadi - Ramanathapuram District (Additional shore facilities) 7) Keelakarai - ” 8) R. Pudupattinam - Pudukkottai District 9) Ponnagaram - “

o. Repairs and Renovation of existing Fishing Harbours and Fish Landing Centres.

The Government of India have accorded administrative approval for repairs and renovation of Fishing Harbours and Fish Landing Centres at a total cost of Rs.99.30 lakhs on 50:50 basis. For repairs and renovation works at Thoothukudi Fishing Harbour and 3 Fish Landing Centres, one each at Rameswaram, Kottaipattinam and Chinna Erwadi, the Government of India have released a sum of Rs.25.00 lakhs and State Government have also sanctioned a sum of Rs. 50.00 lakhs including their share of Rs. 25.00 lakhs. For execution of the above works, tenders has been received and they are under scrutiny. After finalization of the tenders, the work will be taken up for execution.

2.6. Fishermen Sea Safety Schemes a. Relief to Marine Fishermen Due to adverse weather conditions like cyclone, water current and engine failure etc., the mechanised fishing boats and crew happen to cross the International Maritime Boundary Line, get drifted and stranded in Srilankan waters. For crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line they are often taken into custody by Srilankan Authority. In the absence of breadwinners, the families of those fishermen experience difficulties to run their family. In order to alleviate the sufferings of those families, a relief amount of Rs.50/- is given per day per family till the fishermen returns home. Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.5.00 lakhs each to 8 District Collectors of Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari for paying relief to

10 the families of fishermen detained in foreign countries while fishing. This scheme will be implemented during this financial year.

b. Assistance to the families of deceased fishermen subjected to attack by Sri Lankan Navy The fishermen of Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari Districts are fishing in the Indian territorial waters. On certain occasions, they happen to cross the IBL (International Boundary Line) inadvertently and at times due to engine failure and adverse weather conditions they are drifted into Srilankan waters. Such Indian fishermen crossing the IBL are subjected to attack by the Srilankan Navy. At times, the Sri Lankan Navy resort to fire leading to causality of poor fishermen. All such incidents are brought to the notice of the Government of India in order to take up the matter with the Govt. of Sri Lanka for their immediate release. In order to enable the immediate disbursement of relief amount of Rs.1.00 lakh to the family of the deceased fisherman who had been fired upon and killed by Srilankan Navy, the Collectors of Coastal Districts. take immediate steps to release exgratia payment of Rs.1.00 lakh from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund.

3. Inland Fisheries In case of inland fish production, India ranks second in the world and occupies an important place in Asian Aquaculture. The current per capita availability of fish per annum works out to about 10 Kgs for the fish eating population of the country which is less than the minimum requirement of 11 Kgs. In respect of Tamil Nadu the Inland Fisheries Sector is about 3.71 lakhs ha of water spread area comprising of Reservoirs, Seasonal tanks, Tanks and Ponds. The reservoir fisheries is undertaken in 45 Reservoirs by the Tamilnadu Fisheries Department and in 8 reservoirs by the Tamilnadu Fisheries Development Corporation. The Department has also taken over about 32,000 ha. of major and minor irrigation tanks for stocking with major carp seeds and exploiting with the help of local fishermen. About 5000 ha. of village ponds and tanks are being developed

11 to adopt composite fish culture technique through Fish Farmers Development Agencies

3.1. Fish Seed Production The Departmental fish farms produce quality fish seeds of catla, rohu, mrigal and common carp for stocking in inland waters. The Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation is producing seeds in their ponds for their requirement. The seeds are produced and reared upto-stocking size in fish farms operated by the Department. Further, 84 private fish seed farms in the State are also producing fingerlings to cater to the needs of private farmers. To overcome the problems of mismatching, cages will be supplied to the Department to rear the seeds that are produced in South West monsoon, till the time of stocking during North East monsoon. It will be extended to private farmers for their earnings.

3.2. Western Ghats Development Programme During 2004-2005 the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 10.00 lakhs for construction of Mahseer Hatchery Complex at Solaiyar Dam in District (Phase I) under Western Ghats Development Programme. The Plans and Estimates are awaited from the Executive Engineer, Public Works Department, Coimbatore. For 2005-2006 it is under consideration by the Government for sanctioning a sum of Rs. 40.00 lakhs for construction of Mahseer Hatchery Complex at Solaiyar Dam in (Phase II) under Western Ghats Development Programme.

4. Coastal Aquaculture Tamilnadu has a total of 56,000 ha. of potential shrimp farming area. On the direction of Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, the Aquaculture Authority has been constituted to regularize the shrimp aqua farms. To assist the Aquaculture Authority, the State Level Committee and District Level Committees have been constituted. For issue of licences to the aqua farms, the State Level Committee scrutinize the applications received from the farmers and processed by the District Level

12 Committees and forward these applications to the Aquaculture Authority with recommendations. As on date there are 2086 shrimp farms functioning in all the 12 coastal districts of Tamil Nadu (except Chennai). Out of this, 852 shrimp farms got approval from the Aquaculture Authority. Steps are being taken to regulate all shrimp farms functioning without the approval of Aquaculture Authority. In the “Fisheries Development Mission”, coastal aquaculture has been identified as a thrust area and it is proposed to develop 1000 ha. of coastal saline land every year under aquaculture utilizing low intensive traditional and improved traditional shrimp farming practices with the support of other agencies like Marine Product Export Development Agency (MPEDA). During the past three years (i.e. from July 2002) aquaculture farming has been undertaken over an area of about 3100 ha. in the State with the approval of the Aquaculture Authority, Chennai.

5. Research 5.1. Departmental activities In order to carry out research to develop fisheries sector, the Department has set up two Research Stations, one at Chennai and another at Thoothukudi. Research is going on in 19 projects, which were cleared by the State Fisheries Research Council in July 2004. Fisheries Department would be co-ordinating with the Central Institutes viz., Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute and the Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi. Some of the thrust areas where the research is being carried out by the Department are 1) Extended breeding / Multiple breeding of major carps; 2) Mono and Poly culture of freshwater prawns; 3) Environment Impact assessment; 4) Demonstration of Marine Fin Fish Farming; and 5) Feed evaluation for commercially important freshwater fishes / ornamental fishes and freshwater prawns. The Government reconstituted the Research Council during November 2001 for a period of three years. The progress made in the research projects has been

13 reviewed by the Council and new projects have been allotted for a further period of 2 years in the 27th Research Council Meeting held in 2004.

5.2. Other Research Activities The concept of Self Help Group is getting momentum in various fields including Fisheries Sector also. To popularize Fisheries activities, the Department has been conducting training in the Fisheries Sector for Self Help Groups in the State. It is under consideration by the Government for sanctioning a sum of Rs. 25.125 lakhs on diversified programmes to support the livelihood of fisher folk in TamilNadu as follows:- 1) Demonstration of Mud Crab fattening in cages 2) Demonstration of fattening of Lobsters in cages 3) Solar Fish Drier The proposed diversified programmes to uplift the socio economic condition of the fisher folk in and around Pulicat Lake will be implemented by the Department of Fisheries with stakeholders’ participation. The Fisheries Department will do the site selection and identification of beneficiaries. The sea farming will be demonstrated to transfer the technology and skill upgradation of the fisherfolk.

6. Extension and Training 6.1. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (80:20) it is under consideration by the State Government / the Government of India to accord administrative approval on Fisheries Training and Extension Scheme at a total cost of Rs.65.00 lakhs to construct one awareness Centre at Pulicat, in Thiruvallur District and two training centres, one at Thoothukudi District and another at Colachel, Kanyakumari District. On receipt of approval from Government of India the work will be taken up for execution. 6.2. With a view to making available adequate trained manpower, for the operation and maintenance of the mechanized boats and to operate modern fishing gear, the fisher boys are given training for 10 months in four places in the State at Nagapattinam, Mandapam, Thoothukudi and Colachel. Each Centre is to impart training to 50 to 60 fisher boys. Besides this, a Junior Mechanic course is also

14 conducted in these training centres. Monthly stipend of Rs.200/- is paid to each of the selected trainee. 6.3. For Strengthening of Data Base and Information Networking for the Fisheries Sector, the Government of India have accorded sanction for a sum of Rs.68.19 lakhs for implementation of the scheme for 4 years and also released a sum of Rs.5.50 lakhs during 2003-04 for implementation of the Scheme. The second instalment is expected from Government of India for implementation of the Scheme.

7. Fisheries Co-operatives As on 31.3.2004, 808 Marine Fishermen / Fisherwomen Co-operative Societies with 4,15,448 members, 346 Inland Fishermen / Fisherwomen Co- operative Societies with 68,220 members, 21 other types of Cooperative Societies with 5176 members, 11 District Fishermen Co-operative Federation and one State Federation are functioning. These Societies constitute an important agency for the upliftment of fishermen / fisherwomen community in the State.

8. Fishermen Welfare With the Fishermen welfare as the top most items in the Fisheries agenda of this Government, the following schemes would continue to receive the support and thrust of this Government during this year also. 1. Fishermen’s Free Housing Scheme 2. National Savings cum Relief Scheme for marine fishermen /women 3. Group Accident Insurance Scheme for fishermen 4. Funeral expenses to fishermen family

8.1. Fishermen Free Housing Scheme In order to alleviate the sufferings of fisher folk in the State, the Government have taken a policy decision to construct free houses to the fishermen from 1975-76 onwards. From 1975-76 to 2000-2001, 47,072 houses have been constructed and allotted to the fishermen. For the years 2001-02 and 2003-04, 6000 houses have been sanctioned, of which, construction of 3088 houses has been completed and the remaining are in

15 different stages of construction. For the year 2004-05, the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 740.00 lakhs for the construction of 2000 houses under State Scheme. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme shared between State and Centre at 50:50, the Government of India have accorded administrative approval for 2000 houses, 100 Tube wells and 5 community halls at an estimated cost of Rs. 838.75 lakhs and released a sum of Rs.219.375 lakhs as their first instalment for implementing the scheme during 2004-05. Accordingly, the State Government have sanctioned Rs.438.75 lakhs including the State’s share. The amount will be drawn and disbursed to the Director, Rural Development Department, Chennai soon for undertaking the work. During 1993-94, the Government had constructed of 492 tenements in Thiruchinankuppam village, Thiruvotriyur Constituency, Chennai for rehabilitation of fishermen families affected by formation of Chennai Ennore Highway Road for a sum of Rs. 237.00 lakhs. These tenements have two storeyed buildings in 11 blocks of 36 houses each and 4 blocks of 24 houses each. Allotments of these houses were made to all the 492 beneficiaries free of cost. In principle, the houses given to fishermen free of cost should be maintained by them. As these multistoreyed buildings constructed close to the Sea are in dilapidated condition, the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs. 90.50 lakhs for carrying out special repairs to the tenements as a special case. The repair works will be carried out by the Engineering Wing of the Department and the drainage work will be done by the Tiruvottiyur Municipality.

8.2. National Savings cum Relief Scheme for Marine Fishermen To alleviate the sufferings of Marine fishermen of coastal areas during the lean seasons, the Government have been implementing the Savings-cum-Relief Scheme for the fishermen of Tamilnadu.

Under this scheme, as per the Govt. of India norms, a sum of Rs.75/- per month shall be collected from the beneficiary fishermen for a period of 8 months in a year. The total sum of Rs. 600/- thus collected will be matched with 50% contribution i.e. Rs.300/- each by the State and the Central Governments. Thus a

16 sum of Rs.1200/- will be disbursed to the beneficiaries during the four lean months. Under this scheme the Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.1600.21 lakhs for disbursement of relief amount to fishermen beneficiaries. Accordingly 1,68,198 marine fishermen have been benefitted during 2004-05. The Government have also sanctioned a sum of Rs. 297.34 lakhs for disbursement of relief amount to 25307 marine fisherwomen during 2004-2005. This scheme will be continued during the year 2005-06.

8.3. Group Accident Insurance Scheme for fishermen Under this scheme, the State and Central Government will equally pay the annual Insurance premium of Rs.14/- per beneficiary fishermen. No premium is collected from the fishermen. Under this scheme, the fishermen will be given Rs.50,000/- in case of death / permanent disablement and Rs.25,000/- for partial disablement. In the year 2004-05, 3,66,057 active marine and inland fishermen and 78,809 inland and marine fisherwomen were insured in FISHCOFED, New Delhi for the period from 10.12.2004 to 9.12.2005 at a total premium amount of Rs. 31.14 lakhs. This scheme will also be continued during the Financial year 2005- 2006.

8.4 Funeral expenses to fishermen family Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.5.00 lakhs to meet out the funeral expenses to the bereaved family of fishermen. A sum of Rs. 500/- is being given to each family to meet out the funeral expenses of the deceased fishermen. This scheme will also be continued during the Financial year 2005-2006.

9. Tsunami devastation – Relief Measures The massive tidal waves of extreme ferocity caused by the effect of the earthquake off the Indonesian coast hit the coastline of Tamilnadu on 26.12.2004. The waves caused unprecedented devastation in all the 13 coastal districts. The Tsunami caused severe damages to the lives of the fishermen and their fishing implements. Due to Tsunami, 507 villages have been severely affected in the coastal districts. About 126182 huts and houses have been damaged and 8010 deaths

17 have occurred. Fishing harbours, fish landing centres, infrastructural facilities like diesel bunks installed in the coastal villages by Tamilnadu Fisheries Development Corporation (TNFDC) and Tamilnadu State Apex Fisheries Cooperative Federation Limited (TAFCOFED), prawn farms and hatcheries, Office buildings and 2 Patrol boats of the department have also been severely damaged. With a view to mitigate the sufferings of the affected fishermen and to enable them to resume their fishing activities, the Government have sanctioned/provided relief assistance to fishermen for repairing/replacing their damaged fishing craft/gears and nets as detailed below. a. Ex-gratia amount to the kith and kin of the deceased; b. Temporary shelters for the houseless people; c. Basic essential commodities to the affected families; d. Utensils and groceries to affected people e. Health and medical facilities f. Financial assistance to the fishermen for repair or rebuilding their partly damaged catamarans / vallams and renovation of gill nets to traditional crafts to enable the traditional sector fishermen to resume their fishing activities to eke out their livelihood g. Assistance for repairing partly damaged engines/mechanized boats h. Assistance for replacement of fully damaged wooden/FRP catamarans, wooden/FRP vallams and fully damaged mechanized boats. The Government have also sanctioned funds to repair damaged Fishing Harbours and Fish Landing Centres in the coastal areas. The relief amount is being disbursed to fishermen.

10. New Schemes 10.1 The Department of Fisheries and the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation are carrying out fish culture activities in 53 reservoirs in Tamil Nadu. But the total fish production from all these reservoirs is around 1% of the total inland fish production in India. Hence, there is a great potential for enhancing fish production by adopting cage culture. The technology of Cage culture has been known for several decades and hence to popularize this technique, to utilize the water bodies effectively and economically and there by to augment fish

18 production a pilot project on cage culture in reservoir is proposed at a total cost of Rs. 5.00 lakhs during 2005-2006. 10.2. It is proposed to undertake repairs in 1750 Sq.m. area of defunct nursery / rearing space viz. Karunthattankudi, Agarapettai, Poondi, Mettur Chembaram-bakkam and Pilavakkal, out of 13 ha departmental rearing area available at a total cost of Rs. 10.00 lakhs during 2005-2006. 10.3. A sum of Rs.30.00 lakhs is proposed during 2005-2006 for dredging the bar mouths in Pazhayar and Thirumullaivasal in Nagapattinam District. 10.4. The storage of water in the is main source of drinking water to Chennai city and so the fish farm of Poondi would not always rely upon the reservoir water storage. Hence to find out a permanent remedy to have perennial water supply to the seed farm a sum of Rs. 6.00 lakhs is proposed to provide a well during 2005-2006. 10.5. The fisheries extension and training centre at Colachel in Kanniyakumari District was constructed during 1964. Every year two training courses are offered to the fisher boys by this training centre. The building of this training centre is in damaged condition for the past one decade. Hence, it is proposed to repair the building at a total cost of Rs. 10.00 lakhs during 2005-2006. 10.6. In most of the places the fish landing centres are in interior, remote corners. Supply of electricity and maintenance are practically difficult due to the inaccessibility of the places. The best alternative is the provision of solar powered lights in those landing centres for the benefit of fisher folk. This scheme will be implemented in a phased manner. In the first phase 20 fish landing centres will be selected and provided with two solar powered lights each at a total cost of Rs. 10.00 lakhs during 2005-2006. 50% subsidy from the Tamilnadu Energy Development Corporation will be availed to carry out this scheme. 10.7. At present, 4 Fisheries Extension and Training Centres at Thoothukudi, Colachel, Nagapattinam and Mandapam are functioning in the Coastal districts of Tamil Nadu. They impart training in modern methods of fishing, Navigation and Seaman, Fish preservation, Marine Diesel Engines operation and their maintenance. About 300 fisher boys are trained in all these training centres every year. For teaching purpose and to chart reading teaching aids are essential for taking copies of subject notes, question papers etc., Hence, a sum of Rs. 4.20 lakhs is proposed for purchase of teaching aids on the above four training centres during 2005-2006.

19 10.8. The Staff Training Institute functioning at Chennai is offering six training programmes to the departmental officials. Further, this Institute is conducting training to fisherwomen self help groups in the preparation of value added products, fish handling, processing and marketing techniques etc., With the existing State of affairs and equipments, this Institute cannot meet the challenges and the training system cannot be effective. Hence, it is proposed to purchase teaching equipments, aids and requisite infrastructure to enable the Institute to cope up with future demands in the training areas at a total cost of Rs. 6.50 lakhs during 2005-2006. 10.9. To generate self employment for economic development among fisher women especially from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities, it is proposed to impart training to them on ornamental fish culture practice during 2005- 2006 at an estimated cost of Rs.3.36 lakhs.

11. Tamilnadu Fisheries Development Corporation Limited

The Tamilnadu Fisheries Development Corporation Limited was established in 1974 as a State owned undertaking. The authorized share capital is Rs.500 lakhs and the paid-up share capital as on date is Rs.445.52 lakhs. The Corporation is at present engaged in the following activities:- I. Management of reservoirs by stocking quality fish seeds and exploiting them on commercial basis; II. Production of quality fish seeds by Induced Carp Spawning Centres at reservoir sites for stocking in the reservoirs and for sale to fish farmers; III. Management of ice plants, cold storages and processing plants at Mandapam, Thoothukudi and Chennai; IV. Supply of diesel at subsidized price to fishermen through retail outlets at Fishing Harbours / Jetties; V. Supply of quality fish in prime condition to public at reasonable price through retail outlets in Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruvannamalai and other important towns; VI. Management of Fish Net Manufacturing plant at Royapuram and supply of quality fish net webbing to fishermen;

20 VII. Management of Shrimp Hatchery at Neelankarai near Chennai and providing facilities to NIOT for the project on “ Marine Living Resources Enhancement programme”. VIII. Management of Pearl Culture Project and Pearl Oyster Hatchery; IX. Management of Model Shrimp Farm at Karangadu; X. Production and marketing of ornamental fishes and management of freshwater aquarium; XI. Marketing of value added fish products; XII. Supply of Outboard Motor/Inboard Engine to the fishermen under subsidy for motorization of traditional fishing crafts.

11.1. Reservoirs The following reservoirs are under the management of the Tamilnadu Fisheries Development Corporation Ltd., in which systematic stocking of fish seeds is made and harvesting of fish is done by engaging local fishermen who are entitled for the value of 1/3rd of the catches as their share: (1) Sathanur (2) Aliyar (3) Amaravathy (4) Thirumoorthy (5) Uppar (6) Palar-Porandalar (7) Perumpallam During the year 2004-2005, 243.87 tonnes (upto Dec) of fish were landed from the reservoirs under the control of Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation Ltd. The revenue realization is Rs.51.70 lakhs.

11.2. Fish Seed Production The Corporation is managing two fish seed production and rearing centres, one at and another at Aliyar and fish seed rearing centres at Amaravathy, Thirumoorthy, Palar-Porandalar and Uppar. Fish seeds produced here are stocked in the reservoirs managed by the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation in addition to supplying of fish seeds to the Fisheries Department, Fish Farmers Development Agencies and private farmers. During 2004-2005, 131.85 lakhs (upto Dec) of fish seeds were produced and supplied.

21 11.3. Fish Processing The Corporation is in possession of Ice Plants / Processing Plants in the State. The processing / Ice Plants at Mandapam has been leased out to private party. 11.4. Diesel Outlets At present, the Corporation is operating 23 Diesel outlets in the Fishing Harbours and jetties like Chennai, Mallipattinam, Thoothukudi, Pazhayar, etc., for the benefit of mechanised fishing boat operators and fishermen. During 2004-2005, a total quantity of 18,525 K.L. (upto Dec) of diesel and oil was sold and earned a commission of Rs. 78.18 lakhs. 11.5. Fish Marketing The Corporation is marketing fresh and fried fish in the cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore and Tiruvannamalai etc., through retail outlets. During the year 2004-2005, 396.64 tonnes (upto Dec) of fish sold for Rs.201.90 lakhs. 11.6. Fish Net Making Factory A fish net making factory with a production capacity of 75 tonnes per annum is functioning at Royapuram, Chennai. During the year 2004-2005, 23.10 tonnes (upto Dec) of Nylon nets were sold to fishermen for Rs. 55.11 lakhs. 11.7. Shrimp Hatchery at Neelankarai The Corporation is in possession of a shrimp hatchery at Neelankarai. Part of the facilities were provided to NIOT for the project on “Marine Living Resources Enhancement Programme”. The hatchery has been leased out to “Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture” sponsored by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) from 21.01.2004. 11.8. Production of Cultured Pearls and Oysters TamilNadu Fisheries Development Corporation Limited is managing a Pearl Culture Project and Pearl Oyster Hatchery at Mandapam. 11.9. Model Shrimp Farm at Karangadu A model shrimp farm has been set up at Karangadu. The shrimp farm has been leased out to private party since 13.8.2003.

22 11.10. Production and Marketing of Ornamental Fishes Under the assistance received from the Government of Tamilnadu, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation has set up ornamental fish production centres at Aliyar and Tirumoorthy Nagar. An ornamental fish sales centre-cum- aquarium is functioning at Aliyar Nagar. Two ornamental fish sales centres are functioning at Chennai. During the year 2004-2005, a sum of Rs.9.21 lakhs (upto Dec) was realized as income towards the sale of ornamental fish and accessories. 11.11.Marketing of value added Fish Products Under the assistance received from the Government of India, the scheme on “Marketing of value added fish products from low value fishes” is being implemented. 11.12. Supply of OBM/IBE under subsidy to motorise the Traditional Fishing Crafts The TamilNadu Fisheries Development Corporation Limited is supplying Outboard motor / inboard engine under subsidy to the fishermen for motorization of the traditional fishing crafts. 12. The Tamilnadu State Apex Fisheries Cooperative Federation Limited (TAFCOFED) The Tamil Nadu State Apex Fisheries Cooperative Federation Limited was registered under the Tamil Nadu Cooperative Societies Act of 1983 and started functioning from 6.11.1991 with Headquarters at Chennai. At present 589 Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies and 9 District Fishermen Cooperative Federations have become Members in TAFCOFED and have paid Rs.89.095 lakhs as share capital. To uplift the socio economic status of traditional fishermen, TAFCOFED had been implementing Integrated Marine Fisheries Development Project with financial assistance from N.C.D.C. 12.1. Integrated Marine Fisheries Development Project

(IMFDP) Phase-1 Integrated Marine Fisheries Development Project: Phase-1 was implemented with a revised project cost of Rs.1699.047 lakhs in 78 fishing villages of 6 coastal districts of Kancheepuram, Thiruvallur, Nagapattinam, Ramanatha-puram, Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari. So far, a sum of Rs.1361.35 lakhs have been spent under Phase-I for the supply of 2108 units of fishing inputs to 4234 fishermen

23 on loan basis with 25% subsidy. Further financial assistance by way of loan with 25% subsidy has also been disbursed for the purchase of 118 two wheelers to the members of 19 Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies for fish marketing. The fishermen in the area of the aforesaid 6 districts have been given necessary training by TAFCOFED in Co-operative management and maintenance of IBE / OBM and Mass Contact Programmes are being conducted for creating awareness among fishermen of the activities of TAFCOFED and to avail the benefits of the schemes. Further, share capital loan without interest to the extent of Rs.19.50 lakhs has been disbursed by TAFCOFED under Phase-I to the members of 24 Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies for marketing activities (viz) sale of Fish, engine spare parts and diesel etc. 12.2. Integrated Marine Fisheries Development Project (IMFDP) Phase-II

The Phase II Programme started from 1.4.98 in 13 Coastal Districts of Tamil Nadu State. It has been planned to distribute 3565 inputs to 100 villages to a tune of Rs.4506.250 lakhs. For the first year, under IMFDP Phase II Government have sanctioned a sum of Rs.800.620 lakhs. Out of this, Rs.574.90 lakhs have been spent for sanction of loan to fishermen belonging to 57 Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies. The above loan assistance was given for purchase of 542 fishing inputs in the first year of Phase-II. In the second year of Phase-II, Rs.41.24 lakhs have been spent for sanction of loan to 81 fishermen who belong to 4 Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies. So far 46 fishing inputs were distributed with 25% subsidy to the above said fishermen during the second year of Phase-II. Currently, the NCDC has reduced the rate of interest to 10%. It is planned to issue loan for fishing inputs for Rs. 431.48 lakhs with 25% subsidy at 10% rate of interest during the current year. 12.3. Service Centres: TAFCOFED has started three service centres at a cost of Rs.3.20 lakhs, one at Mallipattinam in Thanjavur District, one each at Tharuvaikulam and Kombuthurai in Thoothukudi Distirct for selling engine spares, fishing requisites and engine oil.

24 12.4. Diesel Bunks: In order to ensure that each fisherman is benefitted by services provided by the Federation both in terms of "Quality and Price", and also to improve the financial position of TAFCOFED, it is proposed to establish Diesel Bunks in the coastal districts. Two diesel bunks have commissioned at Sethubavachatram in Thanjavur District and at Pulicat in Thiruvallur District. Diesel Bunks at Vembar , Annankoil, Nagoor, Annai Velankanni, Kottaipattinam, Jegathapattinam, Kezhakarai, Tharuvaikulam, and Chinnamuttom will be commissioned soon. SKO /Industrial Kerosene Bunks will be started at Veerapandianpattinam and Chinnamuttom for kerosene driven OBM for the traditional fishermen. Action is being taken to set up diesel/kerosene bunks in some more places in the coastal districts. 12.5. Sale of Outboard Motors/Inboard Engines (OBM/IBE) TAFCOFED is selling Outboard Motor / Inboard Engine to the eligible fishermen under subsidy scheme. 92 numbers of Outboard Motors / Inboard Engines were sold during the year 2004-2005. This subsidy scheme will be continued during the current year 2005-06. 12.6. Supply of Insulated Iceboxes Under the Integrated Marine Fisheries Development Project Scheme, 297 numbers of Insulated Ice Boxes with 100 litres capacity with 75% subsidy were supplied to the members of Fisherwomen Cooperative Societies during 2003-2004. 428 insulated iceboxes with the capacity of 100 litres and 225 litres capacity were supplied to the members of Fishermen Co-Operative Societies during 2004-2005 with 50% subsidy. Thus, the Fisheries Department undertakes a number of schemes for development of fisheries sector and also for welfare of fisherfolk.

M. RADHAKRISHNAN Minister for Fisheries

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