Profile and information sources of trawl net operators in the Greater Mumbai region of Maharashtra state on the provisions of Maharashtra marine fishing regulation act, 1981

Abstract

The trawl net fishing industry plays an important role in the coastal economy of the Greater Mumbai region in Maharashtra, supporting livelihoods and contributing to regional fish production. This investigation deals with sources of information accessed by trawler operators in Greater Mumbai regarding the provisions of the Maharashtra Marine Fishing Regulation Act (MMFRA), 1981. Information was collected with help of structured interviews from 120 randomly selected trawler operators of the Greater Mumbai region. The study revealed that, department of fisheries is the most effective and frequently accessed formal channel, with 82% of respondents reporting frequent interaction. Local sources such as local leaders and family members play a moderate role, with a considerable portion of respondents (46%) seldom relying on local leaders for information. Modern mass communication tools like newspapers, radio, and television are occasionally used for accessing legal information. Among digital platforms, WhatsApp emerges as a relatively significant informal channel, with 24% using it frequently and 65% seldom. The study highlights gaps in formal communication mechanisms and recommends strengthening outreach strategies to enhance compliance and sustainable fishing practices in the region.