The Sindh government has enacted a new policy requiring all fishermen to possess a valid National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) identification for registration, licensing, and the documentation of their vessels.
According to official information today, the move is aimed at combating illicit activities, including smuggling, along the province”s coastal belt.
The decision was finalized during a highlevel meeting on Thursday, presided over by Provincial Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Muhammad Ali Malkani, and attended by senior officials from security agencies, Pakistan Customs, and both federal and provincial fisheries departments.
Minister Malkani announced the new regulation will also aid in eliminating child labor within the fishing industry. He further revealed that a public awareness campaign will be launched through electronic, print, and social media, warning that after a onemonth grace period, individuals caught using prohibited fishing nets will face both fines and imprisonment simultaneously.
To encourage compliance, the government will provide legal alternative equipment to fishermen who voluntarily surrender their illegal nets. ‘This approach will help protect marine life along the coast,’ the minister noted, emphasizing the environmental benefits of the policy.
In a related development, the meeting resolved to establish a joint, coordinated system for all agencies operating along the coastline. This ‘onewindow’ operation will involve the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Rangers, Pakistan Coast Guard, Pakistan Maritime Security Agencies, Sindh Police, and fisheries officials to ensure comprehensive checks and balances and enhance accountability.
Alongside the new regulations, Malkani highlighted forthcoming welfare initiatives for the fishing community, confirming that efforts are underway to introduce permanent insurance and dedicated fishing cards as part of a new welfare program.
Key attendees at the decisive meeting included Secretary Livestock and Fisheries Kazim Hussain Jatoi, Fishermen Cooperative Society Chairperson Ms. Fatima Majid, DG Marine Fisheries Pakistan Dr. Mansoor Wasan, and highranking representatives from the Pakistan Army 5 Corps, Pakistan Coast Guard, Pakistan Rangers, and Pakistan Customs.