ECOLOGY, TECHNOLOGY AND ECONOMY: Continuity and Change among the Fisherfolk of Kerala

“Ecology, Technology and Economy: Continuity and Change among the Fisherfolk of Kerala” is the first book of its kind dealing with ecology, technology and economy of the Mappila, Hindu and Latin Christian fisherfolks of Kerala and their adaptation of modern technology. The impact of recent restrictions on trawling during the monsoon every year for the restoration of the marine life and other related issues are being highlighted. The traditional Hindu fisherfolk have lagged behind in adapting modern technology whereas the Latin Christians and the Mappilas embraced every such opportunity as a result of which they have become prosperous.

The author has also paid special attention to evaluate the traditional ecological knowledge of the fishermen and the modern technological innovations. The continuity of the time-tested technology is emphasized in the traditional knowledge of the fisherfolks in the understanding of various kinds of winds, currents, waves and availability of species of fish. Caught between the hazardous nature of fishing as an occupation and modern technological innovations should or could the traditional fishermen give it up for a living? This is the crux of the study.

Following an anthropological approach, the author, with his long experience in the field, has made it a study of absorbing interest.