NEW DELHI: There are 301 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody but Islamabad has confirmed custody of only 77 fishermen so far, said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.
Speaking in Rajya Sabha, Swaraj said that repatriation of 1261 fishermen since 2014 has been ensured and of these 438 was secured in the last three months only.
“As per available information, presently there are 301 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody. However, Pakistan has confirmed custody of only 77 fishermen so far,” she said.
The minister said that many incidents of apprehensions take place beyond the international waters.
“In this context, under the Community Interaction Programme, regular awareness campaigns are conducted by the Indian Coast Guards in coordination with the State Fisheries Department, to educate "the fishermen about the limits of the International Maritime Boundary Line,” she added.
Several Rajya Sabha members demanded a detailed discussion on the issue and Swaraj agreed to reply to their queries after a time is allotted by Rajya Sabha Chairman.