Fisheries Crisis Averted: President Steps In 📈

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has intervened to resolve a nine-day Satyagraha protest by madel (beach seine) fishermen, following a high-level meeting at the Presidential Secretariat. • The Core Dispute: Fishermen had been protesting a government ban on using tractor-mounted winches for hauling nets. While operators cite labor shortages, the government and environmentalists raised concerns over ecological damage and the impact on approximately 37,000 small-scale fishers. • Key Outcomes: • Immediate Suspension: Protesters officially called off their strike following the discussion. • Joint Action Plan: All parties agreed to propose a balanced solution within a short period to protect livelihoods without compromising marine safety. • Follow-up Talks: Formal negotiations involving all stakeholders are scheduled to commence this Monday. • Financial Relief: Agreement was reached to involve the Ministry of Finance to address leasing and payment issues faced by mechanized operators during the transition. • Sector Context: The fisheries sector remains a vital economic pillar, contributing roughly 1.9% to GDP. The government is currently prioritizing the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy to balance modernization with sustainable resource management.