Goa, June 14 -- Serious regulatory lapses have come to light in Goa's Department of Fisheries, with nearly 600 fishing vessels reportedly operating without valid licences. The revelation, made through an internal government order, has reignited concerns over the department's oversight and effectiveness-especially following the return of Shamila Monteiro as Director of Fisheries. Monteiro's reappointment has stirred public debate, given her earlier tenure's unresolved issues such as illegal LED fishing, unsanitary conditions at jetties, and lax vessel registration.

A directive dated April 30, 2025, issued by Monteiro's predecessor, exposed a startling discrepancy: while only 292 vessels were issued licences for the current season, as many...