The census operation started off on 16th April 2010 as planned after a couple of days of enumerator training preceding it at all the nine states and two  UTs. Operational modalities were laid in a very meticulous way so as to reach the remotest of the villages in time and the entire scientific and administrative machinery of CMFRI and its sub stations were fully involved in making this exercise successful and trouble free. The reports reaching the headquarters from various state supervisors indicate that there has been a marginal to moderate spurt in the number of households to the tune of 15% with most of the villages covered in 2005 being again covered this time too. It was also gathered that the participation of the fisherfolk was more voluntary than the last time with the importance of this operation being well driven. The migratory pattern in the East coast especially in the North East region was well noticed so much so that a couple of villages were found to be temporarily emptied by fishermen from neighbouring states. The issues pertaining to the local setup of governance when it comes to various settlements and hamlets was also came under focus. Overall the participation of the fishermen families was more than enthusiastic and the help rendered by the local heads of Panchayats and other state government officials was laudable. There were reports of curiosity and satisfaction amongst fishers while being asked about their opinion on various issues pertaining to fishery , its present status and future possibilities. In all this was yet another successful operation put into effect by the CMFRI towards a national cause.

The data will be analyzed by the scientists of CMFRI to develop a comprehensive Census Database which will be helpful in facilitating formulation of fisheries related plans and policies in the marine sector. The final report of the Census will be submitted to the DAHD&F, Ministry of Agriculture in March 2011.

Inauguration of the National Marine Fisheries Census 2010 by Ms. Leena Nair, IAS, Chairman, MPEDA at CMFRI, Kochi on 19 April 2010

Training class for the enumerators

Snapshots of the National Marine Census 2010