The Centre has recently approached the Supreme Court stating that the ban on a particular fishing method, known as purse seine fishing, implemented by certain coastal states, is unjustified. This restriction, which reportedly disadvantages endangered species, is currently imposed in areas such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, Odisha, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands up to 12 nautical miles.
Understanding Purse Seine Fishing
Purse seine fishing involves the use of a long wall of netting, framed with floating and leadline, and featuring purse rings hanging from the lower edge of the gear. A steel wire or rope runs through these rings, allowing for the pursing of the net. This technique is prevalent on India’s western coasts.
The primary advantage of purse seine fishing is its efficiency. This method has minimal contact with the seabed and often results in low by-catch levels. It’s commonly used for catching dense schools of single-species pelagic (midwater) fish, such as tuna and mackerel.
Concerns About Purse Seine Fishing
Despite its advantages, there are concerns associated with purse seine fishing. In several states, this method has been linked to the decreasing stock of small, pelagic shoaling fish, like sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and trevally. The scientific community attributes this depletion to climatic conditions, including the El Nino phenomenon.
Traditional fishermen, however, blame purse seine fishing for the falling availability of these small fish. They fear that lifting the ban could further reduce the population of these species. A significant concern is the dwindling availability of oil sardines, a favorite among Kerala fish eaters.
The Union Government’s Argument Against the Ban
The Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying opposes the ban on purse seine fishing. This stance is based on a report from an expert committee, which suggests that this fishing method hasn’t caused any serious resource depletion, as per available evidence.
The committee recommends allowing purse seiners to fish in territorial waters and the Indian Exclusive Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) under certain conditions. They also propose developing a national management plan for purse seine fisheries.
The Jurisdiction of Fishing
Fishing falls under the jurisdiction of the state, meaning the management plan for marine fisheries in territorial waters is handled by each individual state. State subject consists originally of 66 subjects of local importance, such as local government, public order and police, agriculture, forest, public health and sanitation, fisheries, education, state taxes and duties.
Under normal circumstances, states have exclusive power to make laws on subjects listed in the State List. The ongoing dispute over the banning or unbanning of purse seine fishing serves as a prime example of these legislative powers at work.