The Fisheries Department’s move to deploy drone-based aerial surveillance to combat illegal fishing activities is seen as a step towards modernising enforcement and protecting marine resources, especially in the wake of illegal fishing in deep waters. While the initiative is certainly a proactive step, its success hinges on several critical factors that warrant close examination.
Drones can enhance detection capabilities, and it appears to be the best possible option to monitor breaches in high seas, but what Goa has been lacking is patrol vessels. Currently, there are two operating between North and South Goa, and there have been times when these boats were non-operational. The reliance on coastal police and the Coast Guard for enforcement is understandable; however, concerns exist about their logistical preparedness. Mere detection without swift action diminishes the deterrent effect, and hence the operational parameters— such as response times, coordination protocols, and the readiness of enforcement agencies are crucial. For drones to serve as effective deterrents, it is imperative that the Fisheries Department establishes a rapid-response mechanism with the deployment of well-equipped, fast-moving patrol boats that can intercept identified vessels swiftly.
Moreover, the success of drone surveillance will depend heavily on real-time testing and operational drills. The department must undertake dummy runs on the lines of ‘Sagar Kavach’ in controlled conditions, followed by rigorous real-time trials. The coordination between drone operators, law enforcement, and maritime patrol units must be tested, rather than merely watching high-resolution images captured by drones. Test runs will reveal potential bottlenecks, such as communication lags, logistical challenges, or unforeseen environmental factors.
Data has presented a grim picture of the dwindling fish catch, despite a two-month fishing ban operational in the State. Fish species like mackerel, catfish, sharks, and pomfrets have shown lower numbers. The data indicate a sharp decline over the past three years, signalling overfishing, destructive practices such as illegal deep-sea trawling during breeding seasons, and unregulated fishing by out-of-state vessels. These practices threaten the sustainability of Goa’s fisheries and jeopardise the livelihoods of local fishermen.
Bull trawling and LED fishing are the most destructive fishing methods, devastating breeding grounds and depleting fish stocks. Local fishermen have been consistently protesting over such illegalities that have gone unchecked. Allegations have flown thick in the Legislative Assembly with members of the House accusing the department officials of conniving with bull trawlers largely because enforcement has remained inconsistent. Overfishing, especially during breeding seasons, has led to a decline in catch volumes.
The failure to curb such practices over the years presses the need for a comprehensive strategy that combines technological surveillance, logistical support, stricter enforcement and community engagement. The government must strengthen its monitoring of at least the breeding seasons and enforce seasonal bans effectively. Addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing requires a multi-pronged approach.
The success of the drone surveillance will depend on the entire enforcement ecosystem—response speed, operational readiness, and legal backing. But above all, there has to be an intent and accountability, both of which are currently lacking. It was revealed on the floor of the House that around 17-18 vessels in violation have been seized so far, a number which is minuscule against the rampant illegalities that local fishermen have been complaining about. It’s high time that the department is serious about safeguards; otherwise, the fish output could be a scarcity in a land known for its fish-curry-and-rice.
