Maharashtra weighs Rs 20,000-22,000 aid for fishermen during fishing ban: Nitesh Rane
Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane says Maharashtra may give fishermen Rs 20,000-22,000 during the fishing ban period, on the lines of Andhra Pradesh.
The state government is considering giving direct financial help to fishermen during the period when fishing remains banned, Fisheries and Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane has said.
Fishing is banned for a period during the breeding season of fish, which badly affects the earnings of fishermen. Rane said the government is considering measures to provide financial support to fishermen's families during this period.
Speaking to the media, Rane said that on the lines of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra's fishermen are likely to be given a financial grant of about Rs 20,000 to 22,000. He said a decision on this would be announced soon.
Rane also responded to Uddhav Thackeray's criticism of the state government over the drought issue. He said people have already seen what Thackeray did as chief minister. Taking a dig at Thackeray, who had criticised others by saying "tumse na ho payega," Rane said Thackeray himself is the brand ambassador of "tumse na ho payega."
Rane acknowledged that the situation is a matter of concern in some parts of the state due to low rainfall. He said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has clarified the government's stand and that measures are being taken to give relief to farmers. He also said panchnamas would begin from October 5.
Asked about the investigation into the Disha Salian case, Rane declined to comment for now, saying the CBI is investigating and the matter is also pending in court, so no statement should be made that could hinder the probe. However, he indicated that Aditya Thackeray could face trouble because of the repeated statements being made on the matter by Sanjay Raut, Uddhav Thackeray and Sushma Andhare.
