Minister for Muzrai, Fisheries, Ports and Inland Water Transport K. S. Basavantappa said on Wednesday that he would make a sincere effort to increase the compensation amount payable to the family of such a fisherman who loses life during fishing in sea, from the existing ₹10 lakh.

Top priority would be given to the comprehensive development of all-weather Malpe port and to facilitating fishing activities for the fishermen, he said. The Minister was speaking after meeting with office-bearers of the Malpe Fishermen’s Association and inquiring about the grievances faced by the fishermen in Udupi.

He noted that the Malpe fishing port holds the distinction of being one of the largest fishing ports. Efforts would be made to upgrade the fishing industry across the three coastal districts, with primary focus on the modernisation of Malpe port.

He added that the Chief Minister is taking a special interest for the development of the coastal region by holding a Cabinet meeting in Mangaluru on September 18. It is to initiate new measures for the development of fishing activities and tourism in the coastal area. Local fishermen have expressed concerns that developing tourism in the coastal region could adversely affect their livelihoods and fishing activities. Tourism development would be prioritised using guidelines that do not undermine the fishermen’s aspirations.

Under the ‘Matsyashraya’ scheme, fishermen receive a subsidy of ₹1.2 lakh for housing construction, an amount insufficient even for laying the foundation. The Chief Minister would be consulted regarding increasing this grant and raising the diesel subsidy limit from 300 to 500 litres, he said.

He promised to resolve fishermen’s issues in a phased manner and take steps to further boost the fishing industry.

Speaking on the occasion, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna noted that coastal fishermen engage in fishing activities while risking their lives. The Malpe Fishermen’s Association serves as the voice for fishermen across Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada districts. Noting that the fishing sector significantly contributes to the coastal economy and GDP growth, he said that fishing activities could be further strengthened if better schemes were formulated and increased grants were provided for the region.

A request was made to the Minister to arrange for ‘sea ambulances’ in the Malpe area to save lives and safeguard the health of fishermen during emergencies. Additionally, they called for the upgrading and modernisation of existing fisheries schools.