Bhatkal: Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar, announced an increase in the distress relief fund for fishermen from ₹8 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs. Speaking at the inauguration of "Matsya Mela 2024," organized by the State Fisheries Department as part of World Fisheries Day celebrations at the RNS Golf Club ground in Murdeshwar on Thursday, Shivakumar emphasized the government’s commitment to uplifting the fishing community.

In his address, Shivakumar noted that fishermen are among the most economically disadvantaged groups and highlighted the government's efforts to implement new programs aimed at alleviating their hardships. He mentioned that surveys for port development have been conducted, with plans underway to generate employment in the coastal regions of Udupi, Mangaluru, and Uttara Kannada through private partnerships.

The state also plans to provide 10,000 houses for fishermen and roll out a new tourism policy designed to create better opportunities for the youth. "Fishermen’s children often migrate to other districts or states seeking jobs. The new tourism policy will provide them with opportunities to build a brighter future in their own coastal regions," Shivakumar said.

The Deputy Chief Minister further assured that the government is implementing various schemes to assist citizens affected by rising costs. "Fishermen will be developed on par with plain farmers, ensuring holistic growth for their community," he added.

Port Development and Tourism Growth
Minister of Fisheries, Ports, and Inland Water Transport, Mankal Vaidya, announced that the government has allocated ₹650 crores for the development of 13 ports across the state. Additionally, an outer port is being planned for Murdeshwar at an estimated cost of ₹450 crores, aiming to boost tourism and regional development.

"Fishermen are our asset. Along with implementing guarantee schemes, the government is prioritizing developmental works to enhance their lives," Vaidya remarked.

Dignitaries and Participants
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including State Administrative Reforms Commission Chairman R.V. Deshpande, MLAs Bhimanna Naik, Shivaram Hebbar, Satish Sail, and Yashpal Suvarna; Legislative Council Member Ganapathi Ulvekar; Fisheries Development Corporation President Mala Narayana Rao; District Congress President Sai Gaonkar; Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya; Superintendent of Police M. Narayan; Zilla Panchayat Executive Officer Ishwar Kandu; and several others.

Thousands of fishermen from across the state participated in the event, which also featured a special fish feast arranged for attendees. Local residents turned up in large numbers, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.