The Indian Coast Guard, Karnataka, felicitated four fishermen in Bhatkal on Sunday for saving seven fishermen at sea from a boat which overturned near the Bhatkal coast on August 3. Each of them were given a cash reward of Rs. 10,000, certificates and bravery awards, a release from the Karnataka Coast Guard headquarters in Mangaluru has stated. The honoured fishermen are Gopal Mager (45), Suresh Basava Kharvi (40), Navin Masti Kharvi (26) and Srinivas Narayan Kharvi (49) of fishing boat Matsya Deep. They showed their valour and presence of mind at times of dire need and saved the lives of fellow fishermen, the release added. The fishing boat Guru Anugraha had capsized owing to rough sea. Of the eight fishermen on board, one died. His body was later washed ashore at Maravante beach. The fishermen were honoured to boost up the morale. It was to make other fishermen to be conscious of their obligation and encourage them to adhere to safety measures and carry life saving equipment whenever they venture out to sea, the release further added. Coast Guard Station at Karwar organised the function. Mankal Vaidya, MLA for Bhatkal, officials, police personnel and others were present on the occasion.
2016, The Hindu