**Title:** MK Stalin Advocates for Katchatheevu Retrieval to Aid Fishermen
**Meta Description:** Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin emphasizes retrieving Katchatheevu as a solution to protect fishermen’s rights and reduce their suffering.
**URL Slug:** mk-stalin-katchatheevu-retrieval-fishermen-rights
**Headline:** MK Stalin Calls for Katchatheevu Retrieval to Safeguard Fishermen’s Rights
In a recent statement, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reiterated that reclaiming Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka is essential for safeguarding the traditional rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen and alleviating their ongoing hardships. Over the past four years, the Sri Lankan Navy has arrested 1,083 Indian fishermen and seized 185 fishing boats, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Stalin revealed that he has sent 77 letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, advocating for the release of detained fishermen. He noted that DMK MPs and coalition partners have consistently raised this issue in Parliament, resulting in the release of 1,354 fishermen, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining 23. However, 229 fishing boats seized by the Sri Lankan Navy since 2018 remain unreleased.
To support affected fishermen, the Chief Minister announced an increase in financial compensation for seized boats. Owners of trolley boats will now receive Rs 8 lakh, up from Rs 5 lakh, while country boat owners will receive Rs 2 lakh. For the fiscal year 2024-25, compensation has already been disbursed for 73 seized trolley boats and 9 country boats. Additionally, the daily stipend for families of fishermen who are arrested or missing at sea has been doubled from Rs 250 to Rs 500.
On April 2, the Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a special resolution advocating for the retrieval of Katchatheevu. Stalin emphasized, “We are taking all necessary steps to protect our fishermen’s traditional fishing rights. The only permanent solution is to retrieve Katchatheevu.”
In a further commitment to the fishing community, the Chief Minister announced that 39 students from fishing families have been provided with specialized coaching to prepare for the UPSC civil services examination, underscoring the government’s dedication to empowering the next generation.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: Why is the retrieval of Katchatheevu important for Tamil Nadu fishermen?**
A: Retrieving Katchatheevu is crucial for protecting the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen and reducing their suffering caused by arrests and boat seizures by the Sri Lankan Navy.