Goa, July 13 -- While the Fisheries department has launched a new scheme offering Rs 50,000 in financial aid to families of deceased registered fishermen, it is also examining a proposal by Benaulim locals to allot land at the defunct prawn hatchery for traditional fishing activities.

Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar said they are reviewing the demand to allocate around 5,000 square metres of land at the now-defunct Benaulim hatchery site. "We are looking into the financial and practical aspects before taking a final call. In light of the changing climate and rising challenges in the sector, it is essential that the interests of fishermen are protected," he said.

The minister also assured that traditional fishing huts on properties...