Question : LICENCES TO MNCS FOR FISHING IN DEEP SEAS

(a) whether due to the growing pollution around the seas, about one crore fishermen have become jobless since they are not able to catch good quality fish and thus have reached to the brink of disasters;

(b) if so, the steps taken in this regard to save them from this situation;

(c) whether the Union Government have granted licences of diesel trawlers to some multinational companies for fishing in the deep seas;

(d) if so, the impact on the poor fishermen; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (DR. DEBENDRA PRADHAN)


(a) & (b): No instances have been reported regarding one crore fishermen becoming jobless and lack of good quality fish catch on account of growing pollution around seas. In order to improve the fishing capability of fishermen, assistance is provided under the plan scheme for motorisation of traditional craft, excise duty concession on High Speed Diesel oil, provision of landing and berthing facilities for the fishing craft etc.

(c): No, Sir.

Under Deep Sea Fishing Policy of 1991, no multinational companies were allowed to bring deep sea fishing vessels. However this policy has been rescinded from Nov., 1996.

(d) & (e): Question do not arise.