Mr. Sajith Premadasa, the Samagi Jana Balavega’s presidential candidate, has unveiled ambitious plans to transform the brackish and freshwater fishing industries into booming sectors under his leadership. Speaking at a public meeting in Puttalam, Premadasa emphasized that his government will introduce new technologies and methods to make fishing a “friendly” and prosperous industry.
He highlighted the potential of Sri Lanka’s 200 nautical miles of coastal waters, granted as an exclusive economic zone in the 1980s. Premadasa plans to harness this area by initiating public-private joint projects aimed at sustainable development. His vision includes not just revitalizing the fishing industry but also enhancing agriculture and creating “smart farmers and smart fishermen.”
According to Premadasa, these steps are designed to leverage the country’s sea resources and boost the economy, turning the fishing sector into a significant contributor to national prosperity.