Gandhinagar, March 21: The Gujarat government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel and Fisheries Minister Jitu Vaghani, has taken significant steps to protect the economic interests of fishermen along the state’s coast. They submitted a memorandum to the central government addressing the recent hike in diesel prices for fishing boats.
The Gujarat Fisheries Confederation (GFCCA) had previously initiated a tender process with Bharat Petroleum (BPCL) to ensure fishermen received diesel at lower prices. However, BPCL recently announced a price increase of ₹22.43 per liter for fishermen.
In response to this pressing issue, ministers, MLAs, local leaders, and various fisheries organizations presented a representation to the state’s fisheries minister. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Minister Jitu Vaghani, under the guidance of the Chief Minister, submitted a representation to the central government for intervention.
Vaghani emphasized that just as the State Road Transport Corporation was exempted from price hikes, the fisheries sector should also be granted a ‘special exception.’ He urged that fishermen be treated as retail customers rather than part of the consumer segment.
Guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central government accepted this valid representation from Gujarat’s fishermen. Consequently, the central government has directed Bharat Petroleum to withdraw the ₹22.43 increase in diesel prices for fishing boats, allowing fishermen to continue purchasing diesel at the previously established discounted rate.
Fisheries Minister Jitu Vaghani expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, and Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri for their swift decision and successful representation, stating, “The state government is always committed to the welfare of fishermen and will continue to do so.”
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment