Tamil Nadu’s deep-sea fishing community is requesting the Union government to allow data-enabled two-way satellite communication systems on fishing vessels. This technology is seen as crucial for enhancing safety, increasing earnings, and supporting the government’s efforts to expand deep-sea fishing. The National Association of Fishermen (NAF) has formally approached Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to seek approval for satellite-based communication services on fishing boats.
Existing vessel-monitoring systems are deemed insufficient as they mainly offer location tracking, limited text messaging, and expensive voice communication. The cost of two-way satellite calls is approximately Rs 25 per minute, making it a costly affair for the fishermen. Modern satellite communication is believed to revolutionize deep-sea fishing by providing continuous connectivity even when vessels are hundreds of nautical miles away from the coastline, where traditional mobile networks are unavailable.
The demand for improved satellite communication comes at a time when the government is actively promoting deep-sea fishing to boost marine exports and alleviate pressure on coastal fish stocks. The Department of Fisheries has already issued deep-sea access passes to encourage fishermen to explore farther into the sea in search of high-value species. However, fishing organizations argue that expanding offshore operations without ensuring reliable communication infrastructure puts fishermen at unnecessary risks.
Veteran of the fishing industry, R. Manikantan, emphasized that uninterrupted satellite connectivity would offer real-time weather forecasts, oceanographic information, and fish-movement data to fishermen while they are at sea. This information would enable crews to avoid adverse weather conditions, enhance navigation, and identify productive fishing zones more effectively. Additionally, the technology is expected to bring significant commercial advantages. Currently, fishermen often return to shore without knowledge of prevailing market prices, which weakens their bargaining power during sales.
Two-way satellite communication is anticipated to allow crews to send photos and catch details directly to buyers while still at sea, enabling them to negotiate prices in advance and land their catch only after securing favorable deals, thereby enhancing their income. NAF Tamil Nadu State President Praveen Kumar highlighted that many fishermen operating in the Bay of Bengal and the Gulf of Mannar are hesitant to venture beyond 200 nautical miles due to the lack of reliable emergency assistance means. Approving affordable satellite communication is seen as a way to bolster safety, boost fishermen’s confidence, and support the sustainable growth of India’s deep-sea fishing sector.
