Director of Fisheries Dr Shamila Monteiro on Monday said that around 660 mechanised fishing vessels have been fitted with transponders, while about 200 vessels are yet to be equipped. The installation of transponders is mandatory, as they allow fishermen to send emergency text messages at sea. Most of the vessels without the system are currently non-operational, she added.
Speaking to O Heraldo, Dr Monteiro explained that the Government of India has approved a national project under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to roll out the Vessel Communication and Support System, which includes free transponder installation for fishing vessels in all coastal states.
As part of coastal security measures, the installation of transponders is compulsory. Fisheries department staff posted at jetties will verify whether vessels heading out to sea are fitted with the system, alongside checking fishing licences and other required documents.
“Some of the 200-odd vessel operators who have not yet installed the transponders may have done so due to various reasons, but these boats are mostly not in use,” Dr Monteiro said. “Any vessel going out to sea must have a valid registration certificate, fishing licence and a functioning transponder.”
She further clarified that fishing licences are issued annually starting in December. Boat owners — whether mechanised, motorised, or non-motorised — who obtained licences last December have until this December to renew them at the respective taluka offices of the Fisheries Department.
The transponder system is a two-way communication tool that enables fishermen to send short text messages during emergencies while at sea, covering the entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India. It also provides alerts if a vessel unintentionally crosses the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
“This system will act as a lifeline during natural calamities like cyclones,” Dr Monteiro said. “It can help save lives by enabling timely communication and rescue operations.”