The Tamil Nadu Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan on Thursday dedicated a diesel and petrol filling station in R S Mangalam Block in Thirupalaikudi, Ramanathapuram district, which would largely benefit fishermen.
Speaking on the occasion, he said that the State government has rolled out numerous welfare measures for the fisherfolk. With seven districts falling in coastal areas, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin was keen to improve their livelihoods.
Keeping this in mind, a diesel bunk has been opened closer to the fishermen colony, wherein around 10 colonies would benefit. Apart from the registered fishermen, public can also take petrol/diesel from the filling station.
The government provided not only subsidies and financial assistance to the fishermen during the annual fishing ban period, but also enhanced the quantum of diesel for both the country boat and mechanised boats. During the conference held here in Rameswaram last year, the CM had announced close to ₹1,000 crore worth welfare programmes, which the State government has taken up and was implementing in phases.
The Minister also explained the benefits offered through the TANCOFED (Tamil Nadu State Apex Cooperative Fisheries Federation) and the services rendered by the Fisheries Department.
On the occasion, Mr Anitha Radhakrishnan gave away welfare assistance to 19 fisherfolks worth ₹59 lakh in the presence of senior officials from the Fisheries Department including R. Gajalakshmi and others. Ramanathapuram Collector Simranjeet Singh Kahlon presided. MLAs and elected representatives from the panchayats also participated.