PANAJI: The Goa government has tightened marine fishing regulations, making vessel tracking and communication equipment compulsory for mechanised fishing vessels operating in the State’s waters.
The new provisions have been notified under the Goa Marine Fishing Regulation (Eighth Amendment) Rules, 2026, amending the existing 1982 rules. The amendments have come into force with immediate effect.
Under the revised rules, every mechanised fishing vessel must be fitted with at least one approved tracking system, including an Automatic Identification System (AIS), satellite-based transponder or Vessel Tracking and Monitoring System (VTMS).
Fishing vessels must also carry essential safety and communication equipment such as a Search and Rescue Beacon, Marine VHF radio and GPS navigator. Even smaller fishing craft have been brought under the monitoring system, with canoes required to carry a satellite-based transponder.
The government has also made it mandatory for mechanised fishing vessels to obtain a valid fishing pass before heading out to sea.
Rules for berthing at notified fish landing centres have also been tightened. Only registered fishing vessels with a valid fishing vessel licence will be permitted to berth at designated landing centres.
The amended regulations further introduce specific requirements for trawling, including the mandatory use of square-mesh cod ends in trawl nets.
The government says the changes are aimed at improving surveillance, vessel traceability and enforcement of marine fishing regulations, while strengthening safety and monitoring along Goa’s coastline.
