Govt proposes free ration to workers of mechanised boats

Thiruvananthapuram, June 22 (UNI) Kerala Fisheries Minister S Sarma told the State Assembly today that the government was seriously considering to provide free ration to the fishermen working in mechanised fishing boats.

The mechanised fishing sector employing nearly 40,000 people, including 10,000 workers in fishing harbours, remained jobless during the monsoon season following the trawling ban, he said and added that the government would take all possible steps to provide them relief.

Replying to a submission by Mr Anathalavattom Anandan (CPI-M), Mr Sharma said the next Cabinet meeting would discuss the issue.

There are about 4,000 mechanised boats in the State and they remained idle during the 45-day trawling ban.

Regarding construction of sea walls to check sea erosion, he said the issue would be taken up with the concerned Minister.

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