Madras HC seeks Tamil Nadu Govt response on plea seeking Rs 20,000 monthly relief for fishermen during ban period
Chennai, June 9
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Tuesday sought a counter-affidavit from the State Government in connection with a Public Interest Litigation petition seeking a direction to increase the compensation provided to fishermen during the fishing ban period.
In his petition, G Thirumurugan, an advocate and State Coordinator of the fishermen's wing of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), stated that the Tamil Nadu Government imposes a 61-day fishing ban from April 15 to June 14 to facilitate the breeding and spawning of fish species.
Similarly, mechanised and deep-sea fishing vessels operating along the Arabian Sea coast of Kanniyakumari district are subject to a separate statutory fishing ban from June 1 to July 31, in accordance with the fishing restrictions enforced along Kerala's coastline and other regions on the west coast, he added.
Thirumurugan pointed out that Tamil Nadu exported marine products worth Rs 5,744 crore during 2024-25 and approximately Rs 6,323 crore during 2025-26 (provisional figures).
"Despite making such a significant contribution to the national economy and the marine exports sector, the fishing community remains economically vulnerable during the statutory fishing ban periods due to inadequate livelihood compensation and welfare assistance provided by the government," he contended.
At present, the State Government provides a relief amount of Rs 8,000 to fishermen for the entire 61-day ban period. He argued that this amount is insufficient even to meet the basic food and educational expenses of fishermen's families for two months.
Referring to the higher compensation offered by other coastal States during fishing ban periods and noting that the ruling government had promised enhanced assistance in its election manifesto, Thirumurugan urged the court to direct the State Government to provide a relief payment of Rs 20,000 per month to every registered fishermen's family during the ban period.
When the petition came up for hearing before a Division Bench comprising Justices N Sathish Kumar and M Jothiraman, the government counsel submitted that the issue fell within the domain of government policy.
However, the Bench directed the concerned authorities to file a counter-affidavit and adjourned the matter for further hearing.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who grew up in a coastal village, I've seen how hard this ban hits families. But we also need to understand – without the ban, fish stocks would collapse and there would be no future for anyone. The government should balance conservation with compassion. Maybe a graded relief: base amount for all fishermen, plus extra for those with dependent children or elderly parents. Just increasing to Rs 20,000 without clear criteria might create other issues.
Interesting case. The fishing ban is necessary for sustainability, but the compensation structure seems outdated. Rs 8,000 for two months is less than minimum wage in most states. The government earns crores from marine exports – surely they can allocate a fair share to support the very people who make that industry possible? The court is right to demand a detailed response.
Good that the HC has taken this up. But let's be real – Rs 20,000 per month for every registered fisherman's family would cost the state crores. Where will the money come from? The export revenue goes to central government mostly. TN should negotiate with Centre for a dedicated fishermen welfare fund. Also, many fishermen work as daily labourers during ban – maybe the government should create alternative employment schemes instead of just cash dole.
NTK is doing good work here! Our fishermen risk their lives in the sea, face Sri Lankan navy harassment, and then during ban period they're left stranded with a paltry Rs 8,000. Meanwhile, politicians talk about 'blue economy' and export targets. Time to show some real respect to the people who feed us. Court should also ask about timely distribution – many families wait months to get the existing relief. 🙏
I appreciate the concern for fishermen, but Rs 20,000 per month
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