Bhatkal: The Karnataka Traditional Boat Fishermen's Association has urged the government to roll back the recent steep hike in kerosene prices, warning that the increase is severely affecting their livelihoods. A delegation of fishermen, led by State President Nagesh Kharvi, submitted a memorandum to Mankal S. Vaidya, Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Inland Water Transport and Uttara Kannada district in-charge, outlining the hardships faced by the community over the past two months.

Representatives of the association said the sharp rise in kerosene prices has placed a heavy financial burden on those engaged in traditional fishing methods, which largely depend on kerosene as a primary fuel. They noted that the supply of subsidized kerosene through the public distribution system was discontinued after 2022–23. In response, the government had arranged for the supply of industrial kerosene. However, its price has surged to ₹115 per litre in the past two months, pushing small-scale fishermen into distress.

The delegation urged the minister to take immediate steps to reduce kerosene prices and provide relief, warning that failure to act could lead to serious consequences for the fishing community.

Responding to the concerns, Mankal S. Vaidya attributed the price hike to decisions taken by the central government. He said that after the discontinuation of rationed kerosene, the state had arranged alternative supply through industrial kerosene. He added that the government is already extending subsidies of ₹320 crore for diesel and ₹40 crore for kerosene to support the sector.

The minister explained that any further reduction in kerosene prices would require increased subsidy allocation, which must be provided in the state budget. He said the issue has been brought to the Chief Minister’s attention and expressed hope that a resolution would be found soon, urging fishermen to wait for a few more days.

On the delegation’s request, Vaidya agreed to convene a meeting after May 16 with Members of Parliament from the coastal region to discuss the issue. He said MPs could play a key role in resolving the matter and assured full cooperation from the state government, emphasizing that the issue should be addressed beyond political considerations.