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Research Article

Crew Position-Based Assessment of Fishermen’s Knowledge Needs in The Coastal Districts of Tamil Nadu

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V Dani Glenn — Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics
G Arul Oli — Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics
C Lloyd Chrispin — Department of Fisheries Extension, Economics and Statistics, Dr. M.G.R. Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Ponneri-601204, Tamil Nadu, India
R Durairaja — Department of Fisheries Biology and Resource Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Thoothukudi-628008, Tamil Nadu, India
Published 3 Oct 2025 Vol. 61 No. 4 (2025), pp. 84-89 ● Open access
❝ How to cite 🔗 https://doi.org/10.48165/IJEE.2025.61414
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Abstract

The study conducted in 2025 (January to May) examined the knowledge needs of fishermen in Tamil Nadu, focusing on their roles within the fishing crew: Skippers/Drivers, Net Haulers, and Helpers. Tamil Nadu, with its extensive coastline, plays a vital role in India’s marine fisheries, supporting millions of fishermen. The study identified key knowledge gaps in areas such as modern navigation technologies, sustainable fishing practices, and gear handling. A total of 150 fishermen were surveyed from coastal districts, including Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, and Kanyakumari, using a structured questionnaire. The findings indicate that Skippers/Drivers are generally proficient in knowledge and require less training, whereas Net Haulers and Helpers exhibit a higher need for knowledge in technology, sustainability, and gear management.

KeywordsKnowledge needsCrew-specific trainingSkipperNet haulerHelperTraining needFishermen

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