In its manifesto for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has promised a slew of schemes aimed at enhancing the welfare of fishermen families. The manifesto, known as Sankalp Patra, underscores the BJP’s commitment to advancing the prosperity and well-being of fishermen communities across India.
Key Promises in the Manifesto
The BJP’s manifesto outlines several key initiatives intended to uplift fishermen families. One such initiative is the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, aimed at increasing fish production and boosting annual seafood exports. Additionally, the party pledges to strengthen and expand insurance coverage under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, employing technological interventions to ensure swift assessment, faster payouts, and efficient grievance resolution.
The manifesto also emphasizes the development of production and processing clusters, with a special focus on empowering women in coastal communities. Furthermore, the BJP aims to promote seaweed cultivation and pearl farming under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, thereby enhancing the income opportunities for fishermen.
Addressing Long-standing Issues
The BJP’s manifesto comes at a crucial juncture amidst the Katchatheevu row, which has reignited discussions surrounding territorial and fishing rights disputes. The island, located in the Palk Strait between Bharat and Sri Lanka, has been a contentious issue since it was ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974. The recent spotlight on the dispute underscores the challenges faced by Bharatiya fishermen, particularly those from Tamil Nadu, who often encounter punitive actions from Sri Lankan authorities.
Congress & DMK colluded in the ceding of Katchatheevu by Sri Lanka.
The Congress, whenever in power, had the least interest in securing our country’s border, territorial integrity & sovereignty. pic.twitter.com/mryS2eGumE
— K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) March 31, 2024
PM Modi’s Remarks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut, linked the Katchatheevu issue to the capture of Tamil fishermen and the seizure of their boats by Sri Lankan forces. His remarks highlight the urgency of addressing the plight of Bharatiya fishermen and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the longstanding disputes.
As Bharat gears up for the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP’s manifesto offers a comprehensive vision for the welfare of fishermen families. With promises ranging from infrastructure development to technological interventions, the party aims to bolster the fisheries sector and improve the livelihoods of millions dependent on it. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and sustained efforts to address the underlying challenges facing the fishing communities.
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