Constraints Faced by Fishers in Selected Reservoirs of the Marathwada Region, Maharashtra

Aquaculture is burgeoning in Maharashtra, reflecting its potential with underutilized fishery resources. Reservoir fishers face multifaceted financial, social, and environmental constraints despite this growth. This study assesses constraints in Limboti (small), Manjara (medium), and Yeldari (large) reservoirs in Marathwada, Maharashtra, through a primary survey of 170 fisher households across five villages. Findings reveal pervasive illiteracy hindering the realization of education benefits, compounded by poor cooperation, societal conflicts, and limited Fisheries Department support. Economic challenges include the unavailability of credit, lack of financial aid, and seasonal unemployment, exacerbated by environmental issues like drought and disease outbreaks. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustainable fisheries management and enhancing fishers’ livelihoods in Maharashtra.