In order to solve the issue of the auctioneers levying a huge amount of money as commission from fishermen, the Kerala Government on Wednesday decided in a Cabinet meeting that it will directly control fish auctions and all work related to the same.
Currently, there are no restrictions in place while conducting fish auctions at fishing harbours and fish markets.
Reports state that the government has decided to enact laws to look into the quality of fish sold in the state.
The Cabinet has also decided to form a 'sea rescue squad' to conduct rescue operations in the 222 fishing villages in the state. This rescue squad will include fishermen too. The squad members will be given training in powerboat operations and operating sea safety equipment. The training will be provided at a daily stipend of Rs 700.
It has been reported that Rs 7.5 crore will be needed for the project, which will be sanctioned from the CM’s disaster relief fund.
In addition to these measures, the Cabinet has also decided to distribute free Onam kits to as many as 5.95 lakh families in the state under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) scheme. According to Mathrubhumi, this scheme is expected to cost the government about Rs 6.91 crores.
It was also decided by the cabinet to distribute 1 kg of sugar at Rs 22 per kg to the 81 lakh ration card holders of the state. An amount of Rs 14.72 crore is the approximate cost for the same.
A PTI report has stated that a decision was taken in the cabinet to recommend the Governor to make an ordinance for a Bill that seeks the constitution of a Welfare Fund Board for madrasa teachers.
The purpose of the Board would be to ensure speedy disbursement of pensions, treatment allowances, financial assistance for the marriage of daughters of madrasa teachers and maternity benefits for women members.