12-February-2025-Editorial

INDIA-SRI LANKA FISHING DISPUTE

The India-Sri Lanka fishing dispute has been a longstanding issue, with Indian fishermen frequently being arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

The dispute stems from historical fishing rights, depletion of fish stocks, and concerns over destructive fishing practices such as bottom trawling. The conflict affects the livelihoods of fishermen and has diplomatic, security, and environmental consequences.

Key Issues in the Fishing Dispute

Frequent Arrests of Indian Fishermen

• Indian fishermen often stray into Sri Lankan waters due to mechanical failures, unpredictable weather, or chasing fish schools.
• The Sri Lankan Navy arrests Indian fishermen, confiscates boats, and imposes heavy fines.
• Many arrested fishermen face hardships even after release, as their vessels remain confiscated, impacting their ability to earn a livelihood.

Disputed Maritime Boundary and Traditional Fishing Rights

• Indian fishermen claim they have traditional rights to fish beyond the IMBL, as their ancestors have done for centuries.
• The IMBL, established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), demarcates maritime jurisdictions and regulates fishing and naval activities.
• The division of Palk Bay between India and Sri Lanka is legally settled, but fishing rights remain contentious.

Depletion of Fish Stocks

• Overfishing on the Indian side has led to reduced fish availability, forcing Indian fishermen to venture into Sri Lankan waters.
• Sri Lanka considers this “poaching,” arguing that it threatens local livelihoods and food security.

Environmental Concerns: Bottom Trawling

• Indian fishermen frequently use bottom trawling, a destructive method that drags nets along the seabed, damaging marine ecosystems.
• Sri Lanka has banned bottom trawling to protect coral reefs and fish breeding grounds.
• India faces international pressure to shift towards sustainable fishing practices.

Security Concerns for Sri Lanka

• Sri Lanka believes the repeated incursions of Indian trawlers pose national security risks.
• There are fears that Tamil militant groups could use fishing vessels for illicit activities.
• The Sri Lankan Navy remains vigilant, often leading to diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

The Katchatheevu Island Dispute

• Katchatheevu, a small island in the Palk Strait, was ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974 under a bilateral agreement.
• Indian fishermen are allowed to dry their nets and rest on the island but cannot fish around it.
• Tamil Nadu politicians frequently demand the return of Katchatheevu, fueling political debates.

Expansion of the Conflict to Other Waters

• Due to fish stock depletion in Indian and Sri Lankan waters, Indian fishermen are now venturing into the high seas.
• Fishermen have also been arrested in Maldivian waters and near Diego Garcia by the British Navy for allegedly violating maritime boundaries.

International Laws on Fishing Rights

UN Fish Stocks Agreement (UNFSA), 1995

• Calls for responsible fishing and mandates that countries must join or comply with Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs).
• RFMOs regulate fishing in specific ocean regions and ensure sustainable fish stock management.

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982

• Article 87 restricts fishing freedom on the high seas, requiring states to respect the rights of others.
• Encourages nations to prevent overfishing and establish conservation measures.

Geographical Importance of Palk Bay

• Location: Palk Bay is a narrow stretch of water between southern India and northern Sri Lanka.
• Biodiversity: Rich in marine life due to monsoon-driven nutrient inflows.
• Boundaries:

• The southern boundary includes the Pamban Strait, Rameswaram Island, and Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu).
• The northeastern boundary is the Palk Strait, connecting Palk Bay to the Bay of Bengal.

• Fishing Conflict:

• Post the Sri Lankan civil war (ended in 2009), fishing disputes intensified.
• 2013 saw peak conflicts due to increased bottom trawling by Indian fishers.

Implications of the India-Sri Lanka Fishing Conflict

Economic and Livelihood Concerns

• Arrests of Indian fishermen cause distress among families reliant on fishing.
• Depletion of fish stocks and restrictions reduce income for Indian and Sri Lankan fishers.

Challenges in Maritime Law Enforcement

• Increased patrolling to prevent illegal fishing strains resources of both India and Sri Lanka.
• Smuggling activities along the IMBL make enforcement more complex.

Political and Diplomatic Fallout

• Allegations of harsh actions by the Sri Lankan Navy cause tensions between India and Sri Lanka.
• Political pressure in Tamil Nadu influences India’s stance in international forums regarding Sri Lanka’s human rights issues.

Environmental Damage

• Bottom trawling destroys marine ecosystems, leading to long-term biodiversity loss.
• Fish breeding grounds are disrupted, reducing fish populations and harming future yields.

Economic Losses

• Sri Lanka loses an estimated USD 730 million annually due to illegal fishing by Indian trawlers.
• Indian fishermen face declining incomes due to resource depletion and frequent arrests.

Way Forward:

Strengthening Maritime Law Enforcement

• Enhanced surveillance along the IMBL to prevent illegal fishing activities.
• Establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG) for continuous dialogue and conflict resolution.

Introducing Alternative Livelihoods

• Tamil Nadu should promote marine tourism, seaweed cultivation, and inland fish farming as alternatives to traditional fishing.
• Financial aid and training programs can help fishermen transition to other income sources.

Sustainable Fisheries Management

• Creation of a Regional Fisheries Management Authority to oversee fishing regulations and prevent overexploitation.
• Implementation of sustainable fishing practices, including catch limits and quotas.

Promoting Deep-Sea Fishing

• The Indian government should provide funding, training, and incentives to encourage deep-sea fishing as an alternative.
• This will reduce dependence on overexploited coastal waters and ensure a more sustainable fishing industry.

Conclusion

The India-Sri Lanka fishing dispute is a complex issue involving economic, environmental, and security concerns. While historical rights and livelihood needs of Indian fishermen must be considered, sustainable fishing practices and effective maritime regulation are essential for long-term resolution. Strengthening bilateral cooperation, promoting alternative livelihoods, and enforcing responsible fishing will help mitigate tensions and foster peaceful coexistence between the two nations.