India Seeks Humanitarian Solution for Fishermen in Sri Lankan Custody

Sri Lanka holds 97 Indian fishermen, 83 serving sentences and 11 newly apprehended. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar seeks a humanitarian resolution while addressing long-term solutions, noting past agreements as the issue's root. Efforts include diplomatic engagement and equipping boats with transponders.

India is seeking a humanitarian solution to the predicament of 97 Indian fishermen currently held in Sri Lankan custody, including 83 serving sentences and 11 apprehended recently. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha of ongoing diplomatic efforts aiming for their release.

The minister highlighted the historical agreements of 1974 and 1976 as the root of these incidents. He emphasized resolutions through new measures, such as equipping fishing boats with transponders, under initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojna.

Challenges include involvement from state governments and fishermen's committees to minimize risks through transponders and other support strategies to ensure maritime safety. Last year, 560 fishermen were detained, mainly from Tamil Nadu, with ongoing diplomatic efforts for their release.

(With inputs from agencies.)