Theerasadass to Strengthen Ties

• Staff Reporter

Our fishermen community have been eulogised as the Army of Kerala. In recognition of their invaluable contribution to the economic, social and cultural fabric of the state, the Government of Kerala launched Theerasadass, an initiative aimed at giving back to this vital community. This visionary initiative set out to forge a direct bond between the government and the fishermen. Spanning 47 coastal locations across all legislative constituencies, Theerasadass was not merely a programme, but a soulful dialogue, a space where the fishermen could share their stories, their struggles and their hopes. It is a platform where their voices are heard, their concerns are addressed and the government’s development and welfare initiatives are brought to their very doorstep. Through this noble endeavor the government of Kerala aimed to cultivate an environment of inclusivity, sustainability and mutual respect. As part of the Theerasadass initiative, a total of 25,150 applications were received across the nine coastal districts.

Applications related to the Fisheries Department and associated agencies have been resolved. In total, ₹7,99,51,961 in financial assistance was disbursed through the Theerasadass under various heads including medical aid, Fishers Welfare Fund Board insurance benefits, and SAF benefits. Applications pertaining to other departments were forwarded to the respective departments for further action, and coordinated efforts at the district level are ongoing to ensure their resolution in collaboration with the concerned departments. At the beginning of each event, discussions were held with local representatives to identify regional issues and assess developmental possibilities. Through this platform, the fishermen were able to interact directly with the Minister for Fisheries. Concerns were heeded and issues that could be addressed were resolved on the spot. Issues raised and resolved during the sessions included:

• Conversion of APL (Above Poverty Line) ration cards to BPL (Below Poverty Line)

• Provision of VHF marine radios

• Waivers on overdue interest from cooperative societies

• Medical assistance

• Disbursement of accidental death insurance benefits

• Loans via Matsyafed

• Improved amenities at Government Regional Fisheries Technical High Schools

Reconstruction was approved for 184 dilapidated houses at a cost of ₹4 lakh per house in fishermen colonies with a total administrative sanction of ₹7.36 crores for FY 2023–24. Beneficiary selection has been completed, and funds are being disbursed accordingly. So far:

• 54 beneficiaries under Phase I have received ₹1 lakh each (₹54 lakh total),

• 23 beneficiaries under Phase II have received ₹1.5 lakh each (₹34.5 lakh total),

• Thus, a total of ₹88.5 lakh has already been distributed.

Complaints regarding non-availability of funds under the Punargeham Scheme were addressed by distributing the available funds to eligible beneficiaries. Theerasadass stands as a testament to the Government of Kerala’s unwavering commitment to its fishermen. More importantly, Theerasadass has empowered fishermen by giving them a platform to voice their challenges and aspirations directly to the highest levels of government.