By The News Observer Desk,
Karwar: Navy has no intention of disrupting or harming the livelihood of fishermen. “We are not here to snatch their livelihood. Fishermen are like our eyes on the coast, and we always need their cooperation,” said Flag Commandant Officer, Karnataka Naval Base and Rear Admiral Vikram Menon.
Speaking at the Navy Day celebrations at INS Kadamba Naval Base in Karwar, Rear Admiral Vikram Menon emphasized that the Indian Navy is working in close coordination with the Uttara Kannada district administration to find a practical and long-term solution to the concerns raised by the local fishing community.
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He added that the Navy has already held several rounds of discussions with fishermen and their associations. Naval teams have visited coastal areas, engaged with stakeholders, and collected detailed inputs on the challenges faced by the community. The Navy has assured full cooperation within the boundaries of national security and operational requirements.
Rear Admiral Menon explained that naval ships move through a designated and highly regulated channel, and fishermen are not allowed to enter this area due to central government rules, safety concerns, and security protocols. Violating this channel poses a risk of collision and may cause significant damage to both fishing boats and naval vessels, in addition to creating serious national-security issues.
He stressed that a coordinated approach is essential. Both the Navy and the fishing community need to work together with mutual understanding to ensure safety, protect livelihoods, and support smooth naval operations along the coast.
Reporting and Videography by Saikiran Babrekar
