KOCHI: The traditional fishing sector is in a state of panic after the Ministry of External Affairs granted permission to vessels to fish in the deep sea and coastal waters.

Although it is said that the permission is for cooperatives in which fishermen are partners, the order was issued as a loophole to allow vessels of large companies and individuals to fish.

The term 'operator', which defines the ownership of vessels, is described in the notification as private individuals, institutions, cooperatives and farmers' committees. It is alleged that the groups have been used as a cover to create an environment for large individuals and monopolies to enter.

Earlier, under the guise of permission to fish in the deep sea, large ships had entered the coastal waters. This was stopped following s

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