Panaji: Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday said the state govt has decided to provide fisheries cards to all the traditional fishermen giving them proper recognition. He said the govt would act against those selling fish without such a card.“We will not allow anyone to sell fish in the market without the fisheries card,” CM said.Sawant said that a card will be provided to those who have completed 15 years in Goa. “Certificates will be provided to small-time fishermen so that traditional fishing business remains with the Goans,” he said.Speaking at a function organized on the national fish farmers’ day, Sawant said that at least 100% fishing business will remain with the Goans.“I urge all not to introduce persons from other states into this business close to the heart of the Goan community. We have to ensure that this business remains with Goa,” Sawant said.Chief minister said people from neighbouring states were allowed entry into the the fish-cutting business, and now slowly they have started selling the fish.“I urge you not to accept Rs 500 and allow people from other states to sell fish in Goa. I will direct the police to take action against those selling fish without a valid govt issued card. Fishing business involves a whole lot of money. If you show that there is huge money in this business to people coming from outside the state, then they will capture this business too,” Sawant said.The chief minister urged the fishermen to stop selling fish along roadsides instead of earmarked market spaces. Sawant launched two schemes for the fishing community, including crab farming.He said that crab, oyster and ornamental fish aquaculture initiatives have been started in the state to benefit the fishing community. He said that others can enter into the trawler business.Sawant said that changing technology should benefit the fishing community in the state. “Some senior citizens are unable to avail the schemes due to lack of mobility. “I urge them to send their children to the department and get the forms to avail the schemes,” he said.
