Shun illegal practices, fishermen told

I Jagadis, Principal Scientist, Central Marine Fisheries and Research Institute (CMFRI), inaugurated the workshop.

Around 20 fishermen from various parts ofThoothukudi attendedthe event.

The event was organised to encourage fishermen to give up illegal methods of fishing in marine waters. Though several eco-friendly methods of fishing exist, a few fishermen continue to use crude methods with the help of unrecognised nets, which have been banned by the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983. In his address, Jagadis pointed out the need for fitting square mesh panel in the cod end of trawl net. “By doing so, fishermen can solve the problem of economic loss,” he said. During the event, the fishermen were exposed to various aspects on square mesh panel designing and its use in trawl nets.

They were guided by resource persons drawn from the Department of Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering, FCRI.

According to Vinoth S Ravindran, State Coordinator, NETFISH, “Growing awareness among fishermen on responsible fishing techniques in recent years would certainly have a positive impact on marine biodiversity.” Regional Joint Director of Fisheries, Thoothukudi, N Chandra welcomed the gathering.

P Velayutham, Dean (in-charge) of FCRI andother faculty members were present during the workshop.