What is the primary goal of the Sagar Parikrama program undertaken by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India?

The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (FAHD), Government of India, and National Fisheries Development Board along with the Department of Fisheries, Government of Tamil Nadu, Indian Coast Guard, and fishermen representatives organized as well as actively participated in the Sagar Parikrama, Phase- IX which started from Thiruvandanai, Tamil Nadu Sagar Parikrama Phase- IX program began with a warm welcome of Union Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala by fishermen, and fisherwomen at Thondi, Ramnad District followed by interaction with beneficiaries and moved forward to Jegathappattinam Fish Landing Centre, Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu Sagar Parikrama further continued and reached to Mallipattinam Fishing Harbour, Thanjavur District, where Parshottam Rupala,  along with Dr L Murugan and the public authorities interacted with fishermen, fish farmers, fishermen cooperative society leaders and discussed about the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and gain insights on their livelihood. The interaction involved open conversations where the fishermen shared their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Shri Rupala, about the primary goal of such interactions is to bridge the gap between policymakers and the people directly affected by policies The Department of Fisheries, Government of India has already undertaken a strategic initiative on “Matsya Sampada Jagrukta Abhiyan” to enhance outreach and awareness amongst the fishers and other stakeholders across pan India. Sagar Parikrama is contributing to disseminate information on fisheries related schemes/programs implemented by Government of India, highlighting best practices, promote responsible fisheries and demonstrate solidarity with all fisherfolks and concerned stakeholders The goal of Sagar Parikrama is to interact fishermen at their doorsteps, hear their difficulties and grievances, witness village level ground realities, encourage sustainable fishing, and ensure that government subsidies and initiatives reach the beneficiaries So far, the Sagar Parikrama has covered eight phases across coastal States/UTs