The Odisha government has announced a two-day fishing ban on July 17 and 18 across multiple coastal districts to facilitate the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) scheduled missile tests. The tests will be conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore district and Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Bhadrak district. This precautionary measure affects fishermen in Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapada, and Jagatsinghpur districts. The Odisha Fisheries Department has already begun an extensive awareness campaign to ensure compliance and safety. Marine fishermen have been instructed to return to fishing jetties and harbours by July 16, and strict warnings have been issued against venturing into the sea during the testing period.

“We are asking all fishermen on voyages to return to the coast by July 16. Announcements are being made using loudspeakers to warn them of the dangers. It is absolutely unsafe to fish in the sea during missile testing. Strict action will be taken against those who ignore these warnings,” said Bijay Kar, Assistant Fisheries Officer, Paradip. This announcement has, however, sparked concerns among the fishing community. After enduring the mandatory two-month fishing ban for the breeding season from April 15 to June 14, followed by periods of rough weather which stalled operations, fishermen say this additional two-day halt comes during a crucial peak season for their livelihood. Many have appealed to the Fisheries Department for compensation to cover the financial losses caused by the ban. The missile tests are part of DRDO’s ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s defence capabilities, and such temporary restrictions on coastal activities are common during these high-stakes operations.