Along the coast of Kovalam, TamilNadu, fishermen’s day begins before the sunrise. The rhythm of their lives follows the tides. Some fishermen go for deep sea fishing and some go for nearshore fishing. It is more than an occupation; it is their sovereignty; it is a way of life passed down through generations. But life by the sea is never easy. Children grow up watching their fathers and they learn about the wind and the water currents.

The women of Kovalam are not much involved in fishing and allied activities. Few run food stalls and sustain their households. Income depends entirely on the weather and the fish availability. When the catch is less, their debts increase. Many families rely on informal loans just in order to continue fishing. Coastal changes have also made their life more difficult. Shifting of shorelines, erosion, and the obstacles along the beach affects safer boat landings, causes damage and incurs cost.

In addition to this the trawl boats are becoming a threat to their livelihood. The local economy that once thrived around fishing has also shifted. Small vendors and daily wage workers who depended on beach activity got declining opportunities. Still their resilience remains strong. Some fishermen are doing other works as well like plumbing, painting, and auto driving. Festivals are still celebrated with the community; prayers are offered before entering into the sea.

Also, before taking any crucial decision regarding their community’s wellbeing. Community bonds continue to hold the families together. Despite risks and hardships, the fishermen of Kovalam return to the water each day guided by skill, hope, and a deep connection to the sea that defines their identity.

Ganga S is a PhD Scholar in Economics at the Central University of Karnataka.

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