RAJYA SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO-1343
ANSWERED ON- 11/12/2025
WELFARE OF FISHERMEN AFFECTED BY CROSS-BORDER DISPUTES
1343. SHRI JOSE K. MANI
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state :-
(a) the measures being taken to promote the welfare of fishermen affected by cross-border disputes in the Indian Ocean; and
(b) the manner in which Government is addressing incidents of Indian fishermen being detained by neighbouring countries?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH)
(a & b) Indian fishermen are arrested from time to time by foreign authorities for allegedly crossing the maritime boundary line and fishing in their waters. Government of India attaches the highest priority to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. The Government has been taking up these issues, including the early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen and fishing boats, with respective governments through diplomatic channels, various official interactions and established bilateral mechanisms. The matter of early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen is consistently raised with respective countries at all levels and it is conveyed that this issue may be considered purely on humanitarian and livelihood grounds.
As soon as information about the apprehension of Indian fishermen is received, our Missions and Consulates in respective countries coordinate with local authorities to ascertain the well-being of Indian fishermen and provide requisite help and support, including legal assistance, and on the release of the Indian fishermen, provide them with necessary travel documents to facilitate their repatriation to India.
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