Indian fishing vessels are being equipped with two-way communication transponders free of cost with the aim of improving overall maritime security.
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| Indian fishing boats are equipped with two-way communication transponders. (Source: Deccan Herald) |
Transponders built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will help track the location of fishing vessels and boost the commercial interests of fishermen.
According to India Today, “350,000 two-way communication transponders will be given to fishermen in coastal states. In the first phase, 100,000 will be fitted on vessels less than 20 metres in length. The project will be implemented under the Prime Minister ’s Fisheries Improvement Programme.”
Installation of transponders has begun in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
The transponders will be supported by ISRO’s new satellite system. Government agencies, including state fisheries departments and India’s National Security Council (NSC), are coordinating the implementation of the project in coastal areas. The transponders will enable surveillance agencies to pinpoint the location of fishing vessels at sea and enable communication between fishing vessels, as well as with Indian security agencies to facilitate assistance when needed.
Additionally, with transponders, fishermen can receive tornado warnings or other weather-related information.
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