Empowering Goa's Traditional Fishermen: Financial Aid for New Fishing Craft

In a bid to bolster the livelihoods of traditional fishermen and elevate the fishing industry in Goa, the Department of Fisheries, Government of Goa, has launched the "Financial Assistance to Purchase/Construct New Fishing Craft less than 26 feet for Fishing in Inland Waters of Goa" scheme. This initiative aims to provide financial support to traditional fishermen for the acquisition or construction of fishing craft specifically designed for inland water fishing activities.

Scheme Details:

Under this scheme, eligible fishermen can avail themselves of significant subsidies on the purchase or construction costs of fishing craft less than 26 feet in length. For general category fishermen, a subsidy of 50%, up to ₹30,000, is provided on a unit cost of ₹60,000 (excluding GST). Meanwhile, SC/ST/Women category beneficiaries receive a 60% subsidy, capped at ₹36,000, on the same unit cost.

Benefits Renewal:

Beneficiaries are eligible to receive these benefits once every seven years, provided they are replacing an existing canoe.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for this scheme, applicants must be traditional fishermen by birth or profession and residents of Goa. Additionally, the fishing canoe must be registered with the Department of Captain of Ports, Government of Goa.

Application Process:

Interested individuals can obtain the application form from the Department of Fisheries by paying a nominal fee of ₹50. After completing the form and attaching the required documents, applicants must submit it to the designated authority at the Department of Fisheries or the BDO Office/Sub-Offices of the department.

Grievance Redressal:

For any grievances or complaints regarding the scheme or its services, individuals can contact the Department's Grievance Redressal Officer or lodge a complaint via email. All complaints will be acknowledged and addressed within 30 days.

Required Documents:

Applicants must provide various documents, including the original invoice for the purchase/construction of the fishing craft, vessel registration certificate, river gill net registration certificate, Aadhaar card, caste certificate (if applicable), mandate form, and bank passbook.

Conclusion:

The "Financial Assistance to Purchase/Construct New Fishing Craft" scheme embodies the government's commitment to supporting traditional fishermen and fostering growth in the fishing sector. By providing subsidies and financial aid, Goa aims to empower its fishermen community and promote sustainable fishing practices in its inland waters.