Free Safety Devices Go Unused By Many Fishermen

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the Centre and the state are providing satellite-based transponders, costing about `38,000 each, free of cost for mechanised and motorised fishing boats. The devices are linked to the fisherman's registered mobile phone through the Nabhmitra app.

Once activated before a voyage, the transponder enables authorities to track boats up to 200 nautical miles from the Indian coastline. It also provides weather updates, identifies potential fishing zones, functions as a GPS, and enables two-way communication with the Indian Coast Guard, the Indian Navy, fisheries officials and nearby fishing boats during emergencies.

The device also alerts fishermen when they approach ecologically sensitive areas, including zones of oil and gas exploration and habitats of dolphins and turtles. In emergencies such as accidents, fire, illness or drowning, fishermen can send distress alerts with their exact location using dedicated emergency icons or the SOS button, enabling rescue teams to respond quickly.

The transponder can also support digital marketing by allowing fishermen to notify buyers in advance about the quantity and varieties of fish on board before returning to shore.

Fisheries officials said many fishermen continue to keep the devices switched off, despite repeated awareness campaigns. Some avoid using them to prevent their movements from being tracked, while others ignore their safety benefits.

Fisheries joint director (Marine) Dr P. Suresh said every fisherman with a transponder-fitted boat should ensure that the device is switched on before setting out to sea.

"Every fisherman whose boat is fitted with a transponder must keep it operational during every voyage. It enhances safety, enables timely rescue during emergencies and helps ensure a safe return to shore," he said.

All 1,500 mechanised boats are fitted with transponders.

Out of 19,000 motorised boats, nearly 5,000 fitted with transponders while remaining 14,000 to be fitted in phased manner.

Each fishing boat has a VHF set to communicate within 20 km distance.

Each fishing boat must have life buoys and jackets for the safety of fishermen.

Some fishermen tend to go fishing in the sea even when it is rough expecting a big catch.