Kodungallur: The Sagar Mitra scheme, a joint initiative of the central and state governments, is set to be discontinued by September. As a result, Sagar Mitras working in 222 fishing villages across Kerala will lose their jobs.

Sagar Mitras serve as vital links between the government and the fishing community.

They are the ones who deliver and implement about 30 schemes to the workers, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the state government's rehabilitation, FIMS, panchayat schemes, vessel registration, licence, savings and investment scheme, and socio-economic survey. Those selected from fishing families have been appointed as Sagar Mitras.

The fact that they can intervene quickly in problems in the fishing sector is also very beneficial.

The decision to terminate their roles stems from a financial crisis. While the central government has extended the scheme for three months in Andhra Pradesh and six months in Kerala, the current extension will only last until September in Kerala. Continuation beyond that will depend on whether the state government decides to intervene.

Adding to their difficulties, Sagar Mitras have reportedly not received their salaries since May. Their monthly remuneration is set at ₹15,000, with 60% funded by the state and 40% by the central government.