VASCO
National Fishworkers Forum (NFF) on Friday denounced the Budget 2024-25, stating that there was no benefit for the traditional fishermen.
NFF General Secretary Olencio Simoes speaking to media persons said the budget had neglected small scale fishermen and shifted the focus from Wild Capture Fisheries to Culture fisheries.
“The NFF vehemently denounces the recent Union Budget 2024-25, asserting that it falls short of addressing the pressing concerns of small-scale fishers and the sustainability of wild capture fisheries. In her budget presentation, Union Minister for Finance Nirmala Sitharaman, highlighted the government’s commitment to the fisheries sector, citing the establishment of five integrated aquaparks.”
“I want to question how will it help fishers because it will rather will burden the ecology. The NFF criticises the budget for its failure to prioritise the welfare and interests of small-scale fishers who form the backbone of the industry,” said Simoes.
“The union minister made an announcement of stepping up the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to enhance aquaculture productivity, double exports, and generate employment of around 51 lakh people. But NFF feels that in reality, it will displace 2 crore fishers simply because non-fishers mafia will control our sea and rivers basically because no small scale fishers can afford to run aquaculture as it requires huge investment,” said Simoes.
Simoes said that the NFF contends that these initiatives do not adequately address the unique challenges faced by small-scale fishers and the need for sustainable practices in wild capture fisheries.
“The NFF calls for a more inclusive and consultative approach in policy making, ensuring that the voices of small-scale fishers are heard and their concerns are adequately addressed. The forum emphasises the importance of sustainable practices to safeguard the long-term viability of the fisheries sector and demand for Coastal Right Act which will safeguard the of small scale fishers and ecology,” said Simoes.
