What does Meen mean to me? Labour and Time of Female Fish Vendors in the Blue Economy of Kanyakumari

As part of the Social Impact Design Fellowship 2026, this project examines how coastal erosion and the expansion of the blue economy are reshaping the lives and labour of women fish vendors in Kanyakumari. The study highlights the increasing burden of productive and care work faced by women as access to the coast becomes more difficult and fish catches become increasingly unpredictable. It also brings attention to the often-overlooked experiences of women in fisheries and their relationship with the changing coastal environment.

These findings have been translated into a handmade zine, using visual storytelling to make the experiences and challenges of women fish vendors more accessible. The project highlights the need for more inclusive approaches to coastal governance that recognise women’s experiences and participation.


Rashmi Sridhar

Rashmi Sridar is a Social Impact Design Fellow based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. She holds undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the social sciences and has over five years of experience working on issues related to gender, climate change, and fisheries in Tamil Nadu. Her work reflects a strong engagement with community-centred development practices

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