Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Livelihood challenges of traditional fishing units operating large modified
ring seines: Climate variability perspective in Kerala, south west coast of India

Volume 66 Issue 1

P. Praveen, A. V. Shibu, S. Abhilash, C. S. Abhiram Nirmal and K. R. Soumya

10.6024/jmbai.2024.66.1.2473-06

Abstract

The modified artisanal marine fishing sector in Kerala, dominated by ring seine, is currently facing competition from the mechanized category of purse seine vessels. Communities have adopted new livelihood strategies by intensifying the usage of modified crafts and gears. This study aimed to analyze the livelihood challenges of the modified artisanal fishing sector in central Kerala adhering to the Department for International Development (DFID) livelihood framework. Data on the artisanal ring seine fisheries in the Ernakulam, Alappuzha, and Kollam districts, which are revenue boundaries of central Kerala during the period from 2010 to 2022 were analyzed. The livelihoods of modified artisanal fishing vessels with large ring seines are threatened by climate variability in terms of loss of fishing days, repercussions in employment, etc. The adoption of participatory disaster governance strategies and the formulation of marine fisheries disaster policies can play a crucial role in addressing the emerging challenges in traditional fishing communities. Implementation of resource/catch sharing, regulation of physical inputs and credit reimbursement systems are also suggested as management measures for addressing the livelihood challenges of traditional coastal fishers.

Keywords

Livelihood, vulnerability, ring seine fishery, climate variability, policy suggestions

Date : 29-04-2024