Udupi: The state govt will give priority to the comprehensive development and modernisation of Malpe all-weather fishing harbour while ensuring better facilities for fishermen, said minister for muzrai, fisheries, ports and inland water transport KS Basavanthappa on Wednesday.Speaking after meeting officebearers of the Malpe Fishermen’s Association, the minister said the Malpe harbour had earned a reputation as the second-largest fishing harbour in Asia in terms of fishing activity. Efforts would be made to modernise the harbour and strengthen the fishing industry in the three coastal districts, he said.Chief minister D K Shivakumar had shown special interest in the development of the coastal region and has convened a cabinet meeting in Mangaluru on Sept 18 to assess the region’s requirements and formulate new initiatives for fisheries and tourism, the minister said.Responding to concerns that tourism development could affect traditional fishing activities, the minister said tourism projects would be taken up by following appropriate norms and without compromising the interests of local fishing communities.Responding to the association’s demand that fishermen be extended benefits similar to those provided to farmers in north Karnataka, including subsidies, compensation and minimum support price-related assistance, he said the matter would be discussed at the govt level. Steps would be taken to resolve fishermen’s issues in phases and provide greater support to the fishing industry, he added.Udupi MLA Yashpal A Suvarna said fishermen risked their lives to sustain the coastal economy. He urged the govt to provide more funds for the fishing sector, resolve difficulties arising from Coastal Regulation Zone restrictions and extend agricultural benefits to fishing activities. He also sought a sea ambulance at Malpe for emergency assistance, modernisation of fisheries schools and upgrading of existing institutions.Representatives of Malpe Fishermen’s Association submitted a memorandum listing their demands.Govt to support coop societiesThe govt will extend continued support to cooperative societies, which strengthen the national economy and provide financial empowerment to people at the grassroots, Basavantappa said.He was speaking after inaugurating the newly renovated diesel bunk building at the Malpe branch of Udyavara Pitrody Fisheries and Fish Products Cooperative Society.He said cooperative societies not only promote trade and economic activity among ordinary people, but also support children’s education.
