India Sri Lanka Fishermen Issue an Unending woes

Source: The post India Sri Lanka Fishermen Issue has been created, based on the article “Unending woes: India must incentivize fishermen to give up bottom trawling” published in “The Hindu” on 5th February 2024. 

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 –International relations –India and its neighborhood– relations.  

News: India Sri Lanka Fishermen Issue an Unending woes, The article discusses the frequent arrests of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. These fishermen are accused of illegally entering Sri Lankan waters, affecting local livelihoods, and using harmful fishing methods.  

What are The Reasons for The Arrest of Indian Fishermen by Sri Lanka?

Crossing Borders: Indian fishermen often enter Sri Lankan waters, leading to their arrest. For example, 69 fishermen have been arrested this year for such violations. 

Destructive Fishing Practices: They are accused of using bottom trawling, which is banned in Sri Lanka since July 2017. This method is harmful to marine life and the livelihood of Sri Lankan fishermen. 

Geographical Constraints: Under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act 1983, Indian fishermen can operate only beyond three nautical miles from their coast. The proximity of the International Maritime Boundary Line, just nine nautical miles away, leads to frequent unintentional crossings. 

What are The Implications of The Arrest of Indian Fishermen by Sri Lanka?

Increased Tensions: The arrests contribute to ongoing tensions between India and Sri Lanka, affecting diplomatic relations. 

Humanitarian Concerns: The fishermen face long detentions, with some remaining in custody for months. This raises humanitarian issues. 

Financial Losses: The confiscation of expensive fishing equipment, like nets and boats, leads to significant financial hardships. In 2024, 10 boats were seized. 

Impact on Diplomatic Relations: Despite high-level diplomatic interventions, including agreements for periodic meetings and working groups, the issue remains unresolved, indicating strained relations between India and Sri Lanka. 

Want To Know More Topics-

Payment Banks In India- The Paytm Case- Explain

India-Myanmar Relations- In Wake of Ongoing Cris

What Should be Done in This Situation?

Promote Alternative Fishing Methods: As India has promised to end bottom trawling and incentivize deep-sea fishing under the Blue Revolution Scheme, more efforts are needed to ensure this transition. 

Respect Maritime Boundaries: Educate and equip fishermen to avoid crossing into Sri Lankan waters, considering the close proximity of the International Maritime Boundary Line. 

Regularize Diplomatic Talks: Implement the agreed-upon bi-annual meetings between the Ministers of Fisheries and ensure the Joint Working Group on Fisheries meets every three months as planned. 

Address Humanitarian Concerns: As emphasized by Indias ‘s Prime Minister, treat the issue as a humanitarian concern, focusing on the well-being of the fishermen and their families. 

Question for practice: 

Examine the reasons for the frequent arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy and the implications of these arrests