Curtorim, Salcete: In a significant move aimed at strengthening marine surveillance, Goa’s Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar announced that the department, in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard, will introduce drone monitoring during the upcoming fishing season to curb illegal fishing practices across the state’s coastal waters.
Speaking as the chief guest at the National Fish Farmers Day celebration held in Curtorim, Salcete, Minister Halarnkar emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and regulated fishing activities.
“To ensure that fishing regulations are followed strictly, the Fisheries Department, along with the Coast Guard, will deploy drones to monitor illegal fishing and unauthorized trawling activities along the Goan coastline,” said Halarnkar.
The initiative aims to provide real-time surveillance and quicker response to violations during the fishing season, which often sees instances of breaches of licensing norms, fishing in restricted zones, and the use of banned nets and gear.
The minister also reiterated the government’s support for the fishing community and fish farmers, highlighting the importance of adopting new technologies and sustainable practices to enhance marine resource management.
The National Fish Farmers Day event witnessed participation from local fishermen, cooperative societies, and officials from the fisheries department, with discussions focused on the future of aquaculture, technological upgrades, and welfare schemes for the sector.
