Roadmap for Answer Writing
- Introduction
- Briefly introduce the India-Sri Lanka fisheries dispute.
- Mention its significance in the context of bilateral relations and regional stability.
- Key Issues in the Dispute
- Recurrent Arrests: Describe how Indian fishermen are often arrested for straying into Sri Lankan waters.
- Violation of the IMBL: Explain the claims of historical fishing rights by Indian fishermen and the implications of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
- Depletion of Fish Stocks: Discuss how overfishing on the Indian side affects the situation.
- Bottom-Trawling: Highlight the environmental concerns raised by Sri Lanka regarding this practice.
- National Security Concerns: Mention Sri Lanka’s fears regarding potential security threats linked to fishing activities.
- Katchatheevu Dispute: Briefly address the ownership and usage issues related to Katchatheevu Island.
- Impact of the Dispute
- Discuss socio-economic impacts on fishing communities.
- Highlight enforcement challenges faced by both countries.
- Explain the environmental consequences of current fishing practices.
- International Legal Framework
- Mention relevant treaties such as UNCLOS and UNFSA that govern fishing rights and responsibilities.
- Suggested Solutions
- Propose establishing a joint marine resource management authority.
- Recommend promoting deep-sea fishing and alternative livelihoods for fishermen.
- Advocate for stricter enforcement of sustainable fishing practices.
- Suggest enhancing regional cooperation and technology sharing.
- Call for a humanitarian framework for dealing with detained fishermen.
- Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of resolving the dispute for both nations.
- Emphasize the need for cooperation to ensure sustainable marine resource management.