Fishing Craft Subsidy in Goa: Up to 60% Assistance for SC/ST/Women Applicants

This scheme is an initiative by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Goa, aimed at uplifting traditional fishermen by providing financial assistance to purchase or construct new fishing crafts (canoes) less than 26 feet in length for fishing in inland waters of Goa. The primary goal is to modernize and enhance the efficiency and safety of fishing operations among the local fishing community.

Benefits

General Category:
- 50% subsidy on the cost of the fishing craft, subject to a maximum of ₹30,000 per unit (for a unit cost of ₹60,000, excluding GST).
SC/ST/Woman Category:
- 60% subsidy, subject to a maximum of ₹36,000 per unit (for a unit cost of ₹60,000, excluding GST).
Replacement Cycle:
- The subsidy benefits can be availed for replacement of an existing canoe every 7 years.

Eligibility

Beneficiary Profile:
- Must be a traditional fisherman by birth or profession.
- Must be a resident of Goa.
Vessel Requirements:
- The fishing craft must be registered with the Department of Captain of Ports, Government of Goa.
Age and Community Requirements:
- Applicants must meet any additional criteria (such as SC/ST or OBC (Kharvi) certification) as specified in the guidelines.
Employment:
- The scheme targets those professionally engaged in fishing/fish trade or prospective entrepreneurs in the sector.

Application Process

Mode: Offline

Obtain Application Form:
- Visit the Office/Sub-Office of the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare to request the prescribed application form (a nominal fee of ₹50 may be required).
Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields.
- Affix a passport-sized photograph (signed across if required).
- Attach self-attested copies of all mandatory documents.
Submit:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the required documents to the concerned authority at:
  
  Department of Fisheries,
  Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Patto Colony,
  Panaji, Goa – 403 521
  
  Alternatively, submit at the official BDO Office or Sub-Offices of the Department.
Receipt:
- Request an acknowledgment that includes the date, time, and a unique identification number (if applicable).

Documents Required

Proof of Identity:
- Aadhaar Card.
- Election Photo Identity Card.
Proof of Address:
- Ration Card.
Proof of Age:
- Birth Certificate.
Vessel Registration:
- Vessel Registration Certificate issued by the Department of Captain of Ports, Government of Goa.
Fishing License:
- Updated Fishing License Certificate or Fishing Net License Receipts.
Membership:
- Membership Certificate from the Fishermen/Fisherwoman Co-operative Society.
Employment Verification:
- Document certifying full-time engagement in fishing or fish trade (for fish traders).
Residence:
- Residence Certificate indicating continuous residence in Goa for at least five years (issued by the Deputy Tahsildar).
Financial Documentation:
- Loan Sanction Orders/Acceptance for loan component from the bank or National Co-operative Development Corporation (if applicable).
Undertakings/Declarations:
- Declaration of not receiving an Old Age Pension.
- Declaration of non-employment in Government/Government Undertakings/Fishermen Co-operative Society.
Experience Proof:
- For male applicants: Proof of at least 5 years of sea fishing experience (certified by vessel owners).
- For female applicants: Proof of 5 years of fish trade experience (issued by the Village Panchayat).
Other:
- Mandate Form along with Bank Pass Book or cancelled cheque.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main objective of this scheme?
To enhance the efficiency and safety of traditional fishing operations by providing financial support for the purchase or construction of new fishing crafts.
What are the subsidy rates for different beneficiary categories?
- General Category: 50% subsidy, capped at ₹30,000 per unit.
- SC/ST/Woman Category: 60% subsidy, capped at ₹36,000 per unit.
How often can the subsidy be availed?
The subsidy can be claimed for the replacement of the existing fishing craft every 7 years.
Who is eligible to apply?
Traditional fishermen residing in Goa who are engaged in fishing or fish trade, and who are registered with the Department of Captain of Ports.
Is the application process online or offline?
Applications are accepted strictly in offline mode.
Where should the application be submitted?
Applications must be submitted at the Department of Fisheries office (Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Patto Colony, Panaji, Goa – 403 521) or at the designated BDO/Sub-Offices.
What documents are required?
Refer to the “Documents Required” section above for details.
How can I lodge a grievance if there is a complaint regarding the service?
Grievances can be emailed to [email protected] and will be addressed within 30 days.