The government of Odisha has launched this initiative to promote sustainable intensification of aquaculture using bio-floc technology. The program aims to boost productivity and generate high income in limited spaces by developing 5000 Bio-floc tanks under state subsidy support. The scheme encourages the adoption of advanced, high-yield intensive fish farming methods for freshwater and brackish water shrimp culture.
The objectives of the program are:
• To promote high-yield intensive fish farming in small areas using bio-floc technology
• To encourage farmers, entrepreneurs, and unemployed youth to engage in small-scale bio-floc farming
• To provide subsidy support that covers a part of the unit cost based on beneficiary category
• To ensure that beneficiaries construct bio-floc units in accordance with specified designs and standards
The total outlay for the program is Rs.2525.00 lakh. Subsidy assistance is provided at 40% of the unit cost for the General Category and 60% for the SC/ST/Women Category. The subsidy is released in two phases:
• 40% after installation of the Bio-floc unit
• 60% after completion of the project
Benefits
• Increased Productivity: Maintains optimal water quality by controlling dissolved oxygen, ammonia, and nitrate levels
• Water Conservation: Minimizes water exchange, reducing wastage
• Cost Reduction: Lowers feed costs and dependence on water exchange
• Environmental Sustainability: Reduces effluent discharge and promotes recycling of nutrients
• Skill Development: Includes training and capacity-building programs for modern aquaculture practices
Eligibility
• Farmers interested in establishing grow-out tanks, nurseries, and seed tanks; fish and shrimp hatchery operators; private entrepreneurs; and unemployed youth
• Priority is given to unemployed, educated youth due to the advanced technology requirements
• Eligible beneficiaries in brackish water shrimp farming must hold a valid license from the Coastal Aquaculture Authority
• Support is available for a minimum of 2 tanks and a maximum of 6 tanks
• Beneficiaries who have previously availed subsidy for bio-floc installation under other schemes may apply for additional tanks, but the total number must not exceed 6 tanks
Application Process
Online
• Step 1: Visit the official website of the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department
• Step 2: Click on the “Scheme” category and select “Fisheries Scheme” on the home page
• Step 3: Click on Download in the column of the “Brief Description of the Scheme” for “Subsidy for Bio-floc Technology based Intensive Shrimp & Fish Farming (2020-21)”
• Step 4: Download and read the “Brief Description of the Scheme” PDF, scrolling down to Annexure-1 for the application process
• Step 5: Fill in the application form with accurate and complete details
• Step 6: Gather the necessary supporting documents as specified in the guidelines
• Step 7: Submit the completed application form online via email to [email protected] or through the designated mode of submission
• Note: Retain a copy of the submitted application form and documents for your records
Documents Required
• Identification Proof: Aadhaar Card
• Land Document: Photocopy
• Bank Loan Consent Letter: If a bank loan is already taken
• Bank Account Details: Bank A/C No. with IFS Code (Photocopy)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of the “Promotion Of Intensive Aquaculture through Introduction Of Bio-floc Technology” initiative?
A: The initiative aims to promote high-yield intensive aquaculture using bio-floc technology to boost productivity and generate high income in limited spaces.
Q: What is bio-floc technology and how does it benefit aquaculture?
A: Bio-floc technology uses microbial communities to maintain water quality, recycle nutrients, reduce water exchange, and ultimately enhance productivity and cost efficiency in aquaculture systems.
Q: Who is eligible to participate in this initiative?
A: Eligible participants include farmers, fish and shrimp hatchery operators, private entrepreneurs, and unemployed youth interested in establishing bio-floc based aquaculture units, with priority given to educated, unemployed youth.
Q: Is the application process online or offline?
A: The application process is conducted online through the official website and designated email submission.