Dear All,

The Department of Environmental Studies cordially invites you to the Annual Research Seminar on 6th Nov 2026.

Title: "Human dimensions of the blue horizon; behavioural insights for compliance and deterrence”

Speaker: Abhishek, PhD Scholar EVS Department

Date & Time: 6th Nov, 4 PM online

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/91256796441?pwd=V5PzGyYkOySOxtOmihRYg78cqKOHzf.1

Abstract:

Illegal fishing is a global threat to sustainable marine resource management and biodiversity conservation. Despite advances in satellite monitoring, vessel tracking systems, and stricter regulations, Illegal fishing continues to harm marine ecosystems and destabilise coastal economies. In India, where the fisheries sector is crucial for economic sustenance, Illegal fishing remains a pressing issue. The persistence of illegal activities, despite technological and regulatory efforts, highlights the need to address the socio-economic and cultural drivers behind them. Therefore, some critical questions arise: What are the regulations at place to tackle illegal fishing? What drives the spatial behaviour of fishers in the ocean? Why do some fishers prefer technology and some don't? These questions are essential for developing effective strategies to combat illegal fishing. My research aims to fill these knowledge gaps by examining illegal fishing in the South India region. I  evaluate policy gaps and implementation challenges in India's Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) framework, conduct spatial behaviour analyses of fishing using participatory mapping and social science techniques, and investigate the factors driving the adoption of vessel tracking technologies. By addressing these issues, my research tries to contribute to interventions that align with the realities of fishing communities in deep sea fisheries in India, enhancing efforts to combat Illegal fishing.
 

Speaker's Bio: 

Abhishek is passionate about interdisciplinary conservation research. Before joining Ashoka, he worked as a Junior Research Fellow at the Wildlife Institute of India on the Gangetic Dolphin research project. He holds a master’s degree in Heritage Conservation and Management from the Wildlife Institute of India and a B.A. Hons. degree in History from University of Delhi.

We look forward to having you join us for the seminar. 

warm regards,

Environmental Studies Department