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GPS Devices Boost Fishing Yields & Nutrition in Car Nicobar

The provision of GPS devices to tribal fishermen in Car Nicobar has led to a dramatic 168% average increase in daily catch volume. This technology enables precise navigation, reduces time spent fishing, and helps fishermen avoid dangerous weather. Beneficiaries like Junaid and Abdul Sattar have increased their incomes by selling their catches in local markets. The initiative, part of a DST program, included training and was promoted through the local Tribal Council.

Key Points: GPS Tech Boosts Fishing Catch & Nutrition in Car Nicobar

  • 168% average catch increase
  • Efficient, targeted fishing
  • Improved fisher income & nutrition
  • GPS devices provided to tribal fishers
  • Training on modern techniques
2 min read

GPS devices boost fishing yields, nutrition in Car Nicobar: Ministry

GPS devices for tribal fishers in Car Nicobar lead to a 168% average catch increase, improved income, and better local nutrition.

"substantial increase in daily catch volume... approximately 168 per cent - Ministry of Science & Technology"

New Delhi, March 3

The Global Positioning System devices provided to fishers in Car Nicobar have enabled efficient, targeted fishing, steadier supplies of fish and improved nutritional intake of locals, the government said on Tuesday.

A Coastal fisheries information hub has been established at Car Nicobar Island and a total of five GPS devices were provided to tribal fishermen while another five GPS devices were kept for common use, an official statement said.

The initiative has led to a "substantial increase in daily catch volume, with fishermen seeing an average increase of approximately 168 per cent" even as they now spend less time fishing, the statement from the Ministry of Science & Technology said.

The precise navigation and marking of productive grounds led to this surge in daily catch volume. The ministry highlighted examples of some beneficiaries, including Junaid from Teetop village and Abdul Sattar from Chuchucha village, who began selling their catches in markets, increasing their income, after the advent of these devices in the island.

"The life and livelihood of Nicobarese communities are traditional fishing with techniques honed by experience but limited by the unpredictable nature of the sea and weather, as well as the lack of precise navigation tools. Often, boats get lost due to weather disturbances, resulting in loss of productivity and, at times, endangering lives," the statement noted.

In order to overcome this challenge, the Central Island Technological Research Institute has introduced GPS devices and adapted them for use in the local marine environment and fishing practices under the SEED Division programme of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Fishermen were trained on GPS navigation and modern fishing techniques to ensure that they could effectively use the GPS devices. Surveys were conducted to assess fishermen's needs and challenges and facilitate technology adoption and adoption of the technology was promoted through the Tribal Council, it added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Wonderful to see direct impact on lives. But only 5 devices for common use on an entire island? Hope this is just the pilot and they scale it up quickly. Every fisherman's family deserves this safety and boost.
R
Rohit P
Great step. But the article mentions training on "modern fishing techniques". I hope they are careful to not disrupt the traditional ecological knowledge of the Nicobarese. Technology should complement, not replace, their wisdom.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has visited the islands, this is crucial. The sea can be very unpredictable there. GPS isn't just about more fish; it's about bringing fishermen home safely to their families. A truly life-changing intervention.
V
Vikram M
Jai Hind! This is real development. Using science for sustainable livelihood and national nutrition security. Our scientists and the Tribal Council working together is the perfect model. Should be replicated in all coastal and island territories.
K
Karthik V
Good news, but the report is from the Ministry itself. Would like to see an independent assessment after a year on the long-term impact, maintenance of devices, and if it's causing any overfishing in the marked areas. Due diligence is important.

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