Ahmedabad
Thursday, 04 May 2023
Indian Coast Guard Ship Arinjay operating under the aegis of Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 15 (North Gujarat) conducted a Special Community Interaction Programme (CIP) at Beyt Balapar, Okha on 02 May 2023 for fishermen of the area. The special CIP was conducted in coordination with Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) along with the Departments of Forest, Fisheries and Local Fishing Association, with a focus to educate the fishermen about the importance of carrying life-saving gear while venturing into the sea considering forthcoming monsoon season.
As a part of special CIP, officers from IMD briefed fisher-folks about the onset of the South-West monsoon and discussed the catastrophic effects that strong surges and winds can cause to damage their boats whilst at sea as well as ashore. The fishing populace was briefed on how to use the IMD website on their smartphones and institute measures whilst berthed ashore in case of adverse weather conditions. In this regard, the fishermen were also sensitized about the requirement of ensuring the seaworthiness of their boats on a regular basis by the ICG team. The fishermen were also informed about the impending fishing ban on the West Coast of India from 01 June to 31 July 2023 (both days inclusive). The exemption of non-motorized boats from this ban was also highlighted.
In line with the Government of India’s vision to spread awareness on millets, 60 kg of millets were distributed to the fishing populace and they were advised on the maximum usage of millets in their regular meals. The gathering was enlightened on millets having a plethora of health benefits, which are also good for the environment with low water & input requirements.
PR GNR/NM/MC/CK/49/2023
