Puducherry CM Urges Centre to Sustain Subsidized Diesel for Fishermen

Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy has requested Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to continue a special diesel pricing arrangement for registered fishermen. Highlighting the economic impact of recent diesel price changes, Rangasamy seeks intervention to sustain fishing operations and livelihoods following a fuel cost surge.

Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy has formally appealed to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, urging the continuation of a special diesel supply arrangement for registered fishermen in the region. In a letter, Rangasamy detailed the critical role of Puducherry State Fishermen Cooperative Federation, which operates dedicated diesel outlets for fishing vessels at Thengaithittu and Savithri Nagar harbours.

The federation facilitates the supply of approximately 50 lakh litres of diesel yearly, aiding around 450 mechanised fishing vessels and benefiting over one lakh fisherfolk across Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. Previously, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited provided diesel at retail rates, offering substantial financial relief to the fishing community.

Recent price increases have created a disparity between bulk consumer and retail rates, leading to higher fuel expenses for the fishing industry. Fuel, comprising a major expenditure for fishing, now threatens the economic sustainability of operations. Rangasamy emphasized the urgency, noting the resumption of fishing post-ban period and requested either the previous arrangement's continuation or a subsidized pricing solution.