Goa, April 23 -- In a major move to strengthen coastal monitoring, the Goa Fisheries Department has launched a drone surveillance pilot project aimed at curbing illegal fishing activities, including the controversial use of LED light fishing.

Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar confirmed the initiative, stating that drone technology will allow authorities to monitor violations more efficiently and in real-time, particularly in areas that are difficult to patrol regularly.

"We are starting drone surveillance as a pilot project. Our main focus will be on identifying and taking action against illegal fishing practices, including LED fishing, which has been a persistent issue," said Minister Halarnkar.

LED fishing, banned in Goa, involve...