Odisha Imposes Two-Month Fishing Ban to Protect Marine Life, Relief Announced for Fisherfolk

Bhubaneswar: In a seasonal conservation measure, the Odisha government has imposed a ban on sea fishing from April 15 to June 14 to safeguard marine life during the crucial breeding period.

The restriction, enforced under the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982, will impact thousands of fisherfolk along the state’s coastline, as they will not be allowed to venture into the sea during this period.

Officials said the ban will affect around 21,000 registered fishing vessels, including nearly 2,000 trawlers. The move is expected to disrupt the livelihoods of many families dependent on daily fishing activities, posing economic challenges over the next two months.

To provide relief, the Fisheries Department has announced financial assistance of ₹15,000 each for around 15,000 marine fishermen in Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts.

While the ban applies to larger fishing operations, small mechanised and non-mechanised boats below 8.5 metres have been exempted, though their activities will be limited to territorial waters and restricted to catching pelagic fish.

The department has carried out awareness drives in coastal villages and cautioned fishermen against violating the ban, warning of strict action in case of non-compliance.

The annual restriction is aimed at ensuring sustainable fishing practices and preserving marine biodiversity, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to long-term ecological balance.