TY  - GEN
T1  - The state of subsidies: small-scale fisher perceptions on subsidies in Karnataka, India
A1  - John, Sajan
LA  - English
YR  - 2020
UL  - http://discoverylib.upm.edu.my/discovery/Record/oai:http:--agris.upm.edu.my:0-17068
AB  - The discourse linking fisheries subsidies to over fishing and environmental degradation has gained momentum globally and influences trade and environmental geopolitics. Subsidies and state intervention are essential for the sustenance of small-scale fisheries across the world and are also necessary to promote sustainable practices. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of fishery subsidies and to identify whether the subsidies meant for small-scale fishers had achieved their putative purpose of providing social security to fishers in the coastal state of Karnataka, India. Semi-structured interviews with small-scale fishers from four fishing villages in two main coastal districts show that although a large share of the sampled population (90%) is aware of the existence of subsidies only 42% have availed of them. Results pointed to technical, political and social factors that inhibit small-scale fishers from relying on state welfare measures as a security against vulnerabilities. The study identified areas for reform in the information dissemination processes as also towards more ecologically sustainable fisheries. Introduction of new subsidies which facilitate the phasing out of small mesh size nets, high-speed engines and destructive gears can encourage better management of depleting resources.
KW  - Fisheries
KW  - Social security
KW  - Fishermen
KW  - Social welfare
KW  - Trawling
KW  - Subsidies
KW  - Fishery management
KW  - Information dissemination
KW  - Coastal area
KW  - Marine fishes
KW  - Marine resources
KW  - Fishery resources
KW  - Labour
ER  -