The government today said an expert panel's recommendations on deep sea fishing policies would be implemented only after discussions with chief ministers of coastal states, amid concerns that proposed steps could adversely impact livelihood of traditional fishermen.
Responding to queries regarding recommendations made by B Meenakumari-chaired expert panel, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh informed the Lok Sabha that at any cost, foreign boats would not be allowed to fish in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The government had set up the committee to review deep sea fishing policy and guidelines. The panel, which submitted its report in August 2014, had made around 20 recommendations such as simplification of guidelines for conduct of fishing operations in EEZ.
EEZ is an area where the state has rights regarding use of marine resources.
"At any cost, we will not allow foreign boats to fish in EEZ...," Singh said during Question Hour amid concerns raised by some members that the recommendations if implemented would adversely impact livelihoods of traditional fishermen.
Singh stressed that before taking a final decision on the panel's recommendations, the government would hold discussions with chief ministers of coastal states.
In 2013-14, coast guards came across 74 cases and till December 44 foreign boats were seized for entering the zone, he added.
The panel had also recommended that parts of the sea, having a depth between 200 and 500 metre, should be reserved as a buffer zone.
Singh emphasised that the government would not announce upto 500 metres (depth) as buffer zone.
On the panel report, the government has sought responses on 19 recommendations and many states have given their responses.
