Bhatkal: The Indian Coast Guard of Karnataka felicitated four fishermen in Bhatkal on Sunday for rescuing seven fishermen at sea when their boat capsized, 15 nautical miles away off the Bhatkal coast on August 3.

The honoured fishermen are Gopal Moger (45), Suresh Basava Kharvi (40), Navin Maasti Kharvi (26) and Srinivas Narayan Kharvi (49) of fishing boat Matsya Deep.

Each of them were given a cash reward of Rs. 10000, certificates and bravery awards, a release from the Karnataka Coast Guard headquarters in Mangaluru has stated.

On August 3, the fishing boat 'Guru Anugraha' had capsized owing to rough sea. Of the eight fishermen, seven swam for nine hours and reached a boat where they were rescued. One fisherman was missing and his body was recovered from Maravanthe beach in Udupi district after two days.

Indian Coast Guard has arranged this award ceremony to boost the morale and felicitate the gallant act of the fishermen who rescued others in need.

“They showed their valour and presence of mind at times of dire need and saved the lives of fellow fishermen. It was to make other fishermen to be conscious of their obligation and encourage them to adhere to safety measures and carry life saving equipment whenever they venture out to sea,"  the release stated.

Coast Guard Station at Karwar organised the function. MLA Mankal Vaidya, officials, police personnel and others were present on the occasion.