Assistance to OBM Boat Owner Fishermen on Purchase of Kerosene or Petrol is a Gujarat government scheme that gives fishermen a subsidy of ₹50 per litre on fuel for small boats fitted with Outboard Motors (OBM). The monthly fuel quota has been raised from 150 litres to 450 litres for 2026, giving the fishing community a big cut in their daily fuel costs.
Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Cooperation Department of Gujarat runs this scheme for the fishing community. Eligible fishermen buy kerosene or petrol from approved fuel stations and claim the subsidy through their district fisheries office.
Assistance to OBM Boat Owner Fishermen on Purchase of Kerosene or Petrol - Introduction
This scheme supports fishermen who use small boats with Outboard Motors (OBM) by reducing the cost of kerosene or petrol. In 2026, the government raised the monthly fuel quota from 150 litres to 450 litres, which is three times the earlier limit. The decision was announced by Fisheries Minister Raghavji Patel after a meeting with fisherman leaders in Gandhinagar.
The fuel subsidy is now paid through a clear online software, similar to the way diesel support is given. This makes the payment more open and easier to track for every eligible fisherman. The scheme stays active all through the year under the fixed quota set by the government.
Key Information
| Key Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Assistance to OBM Boat Owner Fishermen on Purchase of Kerosene/Petrol |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary Type | Individual |
| State | Gujarat |
| Nodal Department | Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Cooperation Department |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Subsidy Amount | ₹50 per litre |
| Fuel Quota | 450 litres per month (raised from 150 litres) |
| DBT Scheme | No |
Benefits
This scheme gives clear relief to eligible fishermen by lowering their daily fuel costs. The following table shows the financial support provided:
| Component | Maximum Subsidy Amount |
|---|---|
| Purchase of Kerosene/Petrol | ₹50 per litre |
You can get these benefits throughout the year under the government-prescribed quota system. With the quota now at 450 litres per month, fishermen can cover more fishing trips without worrying about high fuel bills.
Eligibility
To qualify for this support, you should meet the following criteria:
- You must be a permanent resident of Gujarat.
- You must be a registered fisherman by profession.
- You must hold a valid Kerosene/Petrol Card issued by the government.
- You must own and operate a small boat fitted with an Outboard Motor (OBM).
Application Process
Offline Application Process
You can apply for this subsidy by following these simple steps:
STEP 1 - Purchase your required kerosene or petrol from government-approved fuel stations operated by the Gujarat Fisheries Central Co-operative Association Limited (G.F.C.C.A. Ltd.).
STEP 2 - Collect and keep the original purchase bills safely for your records.
STEP 3 - Prepare your application with all required supporting documents and submit it to your nearest district fisheries office.
Documents
When applying, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Kerosene/Petrol Card issued by the government.
- Original purchase bills for the fuel.
- Proof of boat ownership.
- Aadhaar Card or other government-verified identification.
- Bank account details for record-keeping.
- Any additional documentation requested by the district office.
References
Click here to view official scheme guidelines
Commissioner of Fisheries, Gujarat - Marine Fisheries
FAQ's
What is the primary objective of this scheme?
The scheme gives financial support to fishermen owning small boats with Outboard Motors (OBM) by subsidizing the cost of kerosene or petrol, thereby helping the fishing community in Gujarat.
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Fishermen who are permanent residents of Gujarat, own a small boat with an Outboard Motor, and possess a government-issued fuel card are eligible to apply.
What specific financial assistance is provided?
Eligible fishermen receive a subsidy of ₹50 per litre for kerosene or petrol to help reduce their fuel expenses.
Is there a specific limit on the fuel allowed under this subsidy?
Yes, the assistance is provided based on a fixed fuel quota allotted by the government. In 2026, the monthly quota has been raised from 150 litres to 450 litres.
Where should I purchase fuel to claim the subsidy?
You must purchase your fuel from government-approved stations operated by the G.F.C.C.A. Ltd. to remain eligible for the subsidy.
Can fishermen from other states apply?
No, this scheme is strictly for permanent residents of Gujarat.
How often can I claim these benefits?
You can claim the benefits throughout the year, depending on the fixed fuel quota allocated to you each month.
Is there a minimum income requirement to apply?
No, there is no minimum or maximum income requirement for applicants.
Does this scheme cover boats with Inboard Motors?
No, the subsidy is exclusively for small boats operated by Outboard Motors (OBM).
Can I apply for this scheme online?
The application is still submitted offline at the district fisheries office. However, the subsidy payment is now processed through a transparent online software, similar to the diesel support system.
Where can I find further assistance or information?
You may contact your local district fisheries office or refer to official government notifications for further guidance.
