Implications of Government Sponsored Social Security and Welfare Schemes on Socioeconomic Status of Small Scale Marine Fisherfolk in Kerala

A socio-economic research is required as an attempt to address the socio-economic issues facing small-scale fisheries. A study of the socio economic conditions of small-scale fishermen is a prerequisite for good design and successful implementation of effective assistance Programmes. It will provide an overall pidure of the structure, activities and standards of living of small-scale fisherfolk The study is confined to the coastal districts of Ernakulam, Thrissur and Malappuram districts. It also gives a picture of socio-economic conditions of the fisher folk in the study area. The variables that may depict the standard of living of the small-scale fisherfolk are occupational structure, family size, age structure, income, expenditure, education, housing and other social amenities. It attempts to see the asset creation of the fisherfolk with the help of government agencies, and the nature of savings and expenditure pattern of the fisherfolk. It also provides a picture of the indebtedness of the fisherfolk in the study area. The study analyses the schemes implemented by the government through its agencies, like Fisheries Department, Matsyaboard, and Matsyafed; and the awareness of fisherfolk regarding these schemes, their attitude and reactions, the extent of accessibility, and the viability of the schemes.

Customary Laws of Lakshadweep Islands

The customary laws of Union Territory of Lakshadweep islands are a challenge for judicial institution as well as administrative machinery. With the peculiarities of socio-legal institutions, Lakshadweep system stands apart from the mainstream of legal systems in India. How far do the charismatic modernisation trends flowing into the Lakshadweep society affect the people already protected by the uncodified laws of the past? Many are the issues at this stage. This study analyses them. It examines the growth, evolution and development of the legal system in the islands vis-a-vis the administrative mechanism imposed by the mainland ethos and culture.