India is the world's fourth largest fishing nation, accounting for over 4.39% of the global output. It is also a major contributor of foreign exchange earnings for several countries including India through export. The potential forward and backward linkages through boat building, construction of fishing harbours, fish processing etc., contribute further to diversification and strengthening of the regional and national economy. Modern fishing devices like motor boats are increasing the pollution and destroy the natural environment. But the ancient tradition of fishing by using the traditional devices like Pari, Katcha, Ootha, Sorati, Catamaran, and Karaivalai have become sustainable way of harvesting inland and marine life without damaging the environment of coral mangrove, wetland and sea-grass bed habitats. It has been practiced
by the coastal fishing communities.