Migrant Workers Integral to Kerala's Fisheries; Comprising 58% Workforce

Kochi, Aug 29 (PTI) Migrant laborers are increasingly becoming central to Kerala’s marine fisheries sector, making up 58% of the fishing workforce according to research by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). The study underscores the role of migrant workers as a critical component of Kerala's marine sector across all segments: harvest, post-harvest, and market activities. Conducted as part of a nationwide project investigating labor migration's effects on employment, livelihoods, and productivity in India’s marine fisheries, the research found notable concentrations of migrant labor at Munambam harbor in Ernakulam district, where they account for 78% of the workforce in the mechanized fishing sector. The majority of these laborers hail from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Odisha. In post-harvest units and fish markets, migrants constitute about 50% and 40% of the workforce, respectively. The study also highlighted a growing reluctance among younger generations—both local and migrant—to pursue careers in the marine industry, suggesting uncertainty about workforce sustainability in the long term. The research findings were discussed at a consultative workshop at CMFRI, aimed at gathering feedback and additional insights from stakeholders, led by CMFRI Principal Scientist Dr. Shyam S Salim. The study also pointed out stark contrasts in expenditure patterns. While local workers allocate 20-30% of their income for savings and significant amounts for education and housing, migrants remit as much as 75% of their earnings to their families in their home states, often living on boats with minimal expenses for housing and amenities in Kerala. Migrant workers consistently earn less than local workers, with an average monthly income of Rs 25,000 in harvest roles, dropping to Rs 11,000 in post-harvest jobs, compared to the Rs 30,000 earned by local workers. Despite their essential role, migrant workers remain vulnerable, facing exploitation, health hazards, and inadequate social safeguards. Challenges for local workers include insufficient income, debt, off-season joblessness, and lack of credit interest while migrants deal with identity issues, conflicts with locals, and discrimination. The research developed a 'Labour Mobility Grid' to illustrate the complexities of fisher migration, pointing to poverty and unemployment as push factors in origin states, contrasted with better wages and demand in Kerala as pull factors. Deputy Director of Fisheries Dr. Maja Jose, who inaugurated the workshop, emphasized the government's commitment to addressing migrant workers' issues. The workshop recommended urgent policy measures for improving fisher labor welfare, including enhanced housing, health coverage, educational support, and steps towards livelihood diversification.