Swift intervention by Centre overturns steep diesel hike impacting coastal livelihoods
- Gujarat’s strong representation prompts policy rethink on fuel pricing for fisheries sector
- Fishermen to continue receiving subsidised diesel under existing concessional framework
- Sector gets breather as govt flags food security, exports and income stability concerns
NE NEWS SERVICE
GANDHINAGAR, MAR 22
In a significant relief to coastal communities, the Centre has directed a rollback of the steep ₹22.43 per litre diesel price hike for fishing boats in Gujarat, following strong representations from the state government highlighting its adverse impact on fishermen.
The price increase had been introduced by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) under its contractual arrangement with the Gujarat Fisheries Central Cooperative Association (GFCCA), which supplies subsidised fuel to fishermen.
The move had sparked widespread concern across Gujarat’s fishing belt, prompting coordinated appeals from ministers, legislators, fishing bodies and local leaders.
State Fisheries Minister Jitu Vaghani, in a strongly worded letter to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, termed the hike a “serious concern,” warning that it imposed an unsustainable burden on fishermen.
“An additional ₹22.43 per litre cost severely impacts fishermen, who are already operating under tight margins. Fuel constitutes a major component of fishing expenditure,” Vaghani said.
He pointed out that fishermen were being categorised under the ‘consumer segment’, unlike other essential sectors, leading to disproportionately higher fuel costs.
“Fishermen are integral to food security and livelihood generation in coastal regions. They must be treated at par with essential sectors or retail consumers to ensure fairness in pricing,” he emphasised.
The state government also cautioned that the hike could have cascading effects — from reduced incomes and higher fish prices to weakened export competitiveness and slower sectoral growth.
Highlighting precedents, Vaghani noted that exceptions had been granted in other cases, including for state transport corporations, and urged similar consideration for the fisheries sector.
“In the same spirit, the fisheries sector deserves a special exception. A review of the pricing mechanism and reclassification is essential,” he urged.
Responding swiftly, the Centre accepted the representation and instructed BPCL to withdraw the hike, ensuring that fishermen continue to receive diesel at previously fixed concessional rates.
The decision is expected to stabilise input costs and safeguard the livelihoods of thousands dependent on marine fishing along Gujarat’s coastline.
Expressing gratitude, Vaghani thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and Union Minister Puri for their timely intervention.
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare of fishermen and will continue to protect their interests,” he said.
