Archive · 30 Jul 2026
Maharashtra Fishermen Protest Early Deep‑Sea Fishing
In Maharashtra, many small fishermen are upset because the state government said they can start fishing far out at sea from August 1.
This is after a 61‑day ban that kept everyone off the water from June 1 to July 31.
The fishermen say the new rule gives big companies an advantage and leaves them unready.
The government says the rule helps the economy, but the fishermen worry about fairness and protecting fish.
They want the government to listen to them before making big changes.
Traditional fishing communities in Maharashtra oppose the state government’s decision to allow deep‑sea fishing beyond 12 nautical miles from Aug 1.
The change follows a 61‑day fishing ban (June 1‑July 31) imposed on the west coast under the EEZ rules, exempting non‑motorised units.
Small‑scale fishers claim the new timeline gives large commercial operators an unfair early advantage and leaves them unprepared.
The Union Ministry of Fisheries has reiterated a uniform seasonal ban in the Indian EEZ to protect marine resources and ensure safety during monsoon.
Devendra Damodar Tandel warned that traditional fishermen would not accept a policy forcing sacrifices while commercial fleets benefit.
- Who
- Traditional fishing communities in Maharashtra, led by Devendra Damodar Tandel
- What
- Oppose the state government’s decision to allow deep‑sea fishing beyond 12 nautical miles from Aug 1
- When
- Decision announced for Aug 1, following a 61‑day ban from June 1 to July 31
- Where
- Maharashtra, India
- Why
- The change favors large commercial operators and leaves small fishers unprepared, raising concerns about fairness and conservation
- State Government Decision
- Allow deep‑sea fishing beyond 12 nautical miles from Aug 1
- Fishing Ban Duration
- 61 days (June 1‑July 31)
- Affected Areas
- West coast of India (Gujarat, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep)
- Exempt Units
- Non‑motorised traditional fishing units
- Key Person
- Devendra Damodar Tandel