Fishing ban cash aid distribution begins in Tamil Nadu

The Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department has begun depositing ₹8,000 into bank accounts of 1.75 lakh fishermen in the State as ban period assistance. The State government had sanctioned ₹ 140.07 crore to benefit fishermen from 14 coastal districts of the State.

Minister for Fisheries, Fishermen Welfare and Animal Husbandry Anitha. R. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday distributed orders to 10 fishermen from Chennai, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur districts to receive the ban period dole in their bank accounts.

According to a press release, the Tamil Nadu government imposes a 61-day annual fishing ban in the east coast, usually from April 15 to June 14, to conserve marine resources. During this period, mechanised boats are banned from venturing into sea for fishing. To sustain the livelihood of fishermen and their families during the ban period, the State government provides ₹8,000 as financial assistance.