Evaluating The Effectiveness And Awareness Of Fishing Ban Welfare Schemes In Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

The annual fishing ban enforced by the Government of Tamil Nadu serves as a critical conservation measure aimed at preserving marine biodiversity and allowing for the regeneration of fish stocks. However, while ecologically significant, this ban has substantial economic repercussions for coastal fishing communities, particularly in districts like Nagapattinam, where livelihoods are almost entirely dependent on daily fishing income. To offset this seasonal income disruption, the government has instituted a financial relief scheme, most recently offering ₹8,000 during the 2025–2026 ban period. Despite this intervention, significant gaps persist in the scheme’s implementation, notably in areas of awareness, accessibility, and adequacy of support. This study examines the effectiveness and outreach of these welfare schemes, with a specific focus on the socio-economic experiences of marine fishermen in Nagapattinam district during the fishing ban period. Primary data were collected through structured interviews with 90 fishermen drawn using systematic sampling from three key fishing villages—Nambiyar Nagar, Velankanni, and Kodiyakarai. The findings reveal a heterogeneous pattern of awareness and benefit uptake: while awareness is high in some areas (e.g., 98% in Nambiyar Nagar), other communities, such as Kodiyakarai, continue to struggle due to limited outreach and procedural inefficiencies. The study highlights that delays in disbursement and the inadequacy of relief amount often compel fishermen to seek low-paying alternative employment during the ban, exacerbating their economic vulnerability. In response, the paper proposes policy recommendations including improved dissemination strategies through cooperative societies, timely fund delivery mechanisms, and the promotion of alternative livelihoods such as skill training and aquaculture. Strengthening institutional mechanisms is essential to enhance the inclusiveness and impact of such welfare interventions.