Kerala Fisheries Minister Clarifies No Loan Moratorium During Trawling Ban

Kerala's Fisheries Minister, Saji Cheriyan, announced that despite the ongoing 52-day trawling ban, no moratorium on loan repayments for fishermen has been granted. Instead, free rations and financial assistance will be provided to impacted families. The minister emphasized that the ban applies solely to mechanized vessels using trawl nets.

Kerala Fisheries Minister, Saji Cheriyan, clarified on Wednesday that no moratorium has been granted on the repayment of loans taken by fishermen during the ongoing 52-day trawling ban in state waters. However, Cheriyan assured that various supportive measures were in place for fishermen's families throughout the ban.

During the state assembly's Question Hour, Cheriyan responded to MLA E K Vijayan's (CPI-M) inquiry, outlining the provision of free rations and assistance for those affected by the suspension of mechanized fishing activities from June 10 to July 31.

The minister highlighted that fishermen and related workers who lost jobs during this period would receive financial aid of Rs 4,500 from the fishermen's welfare fund board. Contributions come from both the union and state governments, and partially from beneficiaries.

Additionally, Cheriyan reiterated that the trawling ban is solely applicable to mechanized vessels using trawl nets, and not traditional fishing boats.

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