India may soon introduce a nationwide fishing holiday across its western coast, similar to initiatives like “One Nation-One Election” and “One Nation-One Pension.”
Presently, fishing is banned for two months (June and July) every year to protect breeding marine life. But from the next season, the Union Ministry of Fisheries is considering a three-month uniform ban covering June, July, and August, or a 15-day ban across all three months.
A technical committee, led by Dr. Greenson George, has been formed to assess this proposal. The panel is holding discussions with fishermen from Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu to gather feedback.
Fishers have long expressed concern about declining marine stocks, with many saying species are disappearing rapidly. Experts believe extending the ban during monsoon breeding will help replenish fish populations. However, fishermen emphasized they would agree only if all neighboring states implemented the ban simultaneously, to avoid unfair advantages.
Historically, Karnataka observed a 90-day ban two decades ago, but other states continued fishing after 60 days. This inconsistency led to the current 61-day west coast ban (June 1–July 31).
The committee is expected to submit its recommendations by December or January. If approved, the uniform rule could be enforced from the 2026 fishing season.
Besides conservation, the monsoon ban protects fishers from rough seas and dangerous weather.