Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries: Boat Net is a government scheme by the Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Co-operation Department of Gujarat. It helps Scheduled Caste fishermen and fish farmers by giving money support to buy boat nets, so that fish production in inland reservoirs can grow and steady work can be created for the community.
The scheme is run by the Commissioner of Fisheries. It gives a cash subsidy on the cost of fishing gear so that SC fish farmers can take part in inland fisheries and aquaculture without heavy money pressure.
Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries: Boat Net - Introduction
This scheme focuses on one part of the larger Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries scheme, which is the boat net component. The main aim is to raise fish output in reservoirs by promoting active fish rearing, while giving a dependable source of income to Scheduled Caste people working in inland fisheries.
Under this scheme, eligible people get help to buy a boat and a net. The support is given as a subsidy on the unit cost, subject to fixed maximum limits. It is open to individuals as well as groups such as societies, self-help groups, associations, and private units.
Main goals of the scheme:
- To increase overall fish production by encouraging active fish rearing in reservoirs.
- To create steady work for the Scheduled Caste community in the inland fisheries sector.
- To help modernize fishing gear so that SC fish farmers stay competitive in their trade.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries: Boat Net |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Gujarat |
| Category | Agriculture, Rural and Environment |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individuals, Self Help Groups, Societies and Private Units |
| Benefit Type | Cash Subsidy |
| Nodal Department | Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Cooperation Department |
| Implementing Agency | Commissioner of Fisheries |
Benefits
This scheme provides a 50% subsidy on the unit cost of fishing equipment, subject to fixed maximum limits. The money help is worked out as either 50% of the actual unit cost or the maximum fixed amount given below, whichever is lower.
| Unit Type | Maximum Financial Assistance |
|---|---|
| Tin Boat-Net Unit | ₹7,500 (Breakdown: Boat ₹5,000, Net ₹2,500) |
| F.R.P. Boat-Net Unit | ₹15,000 (Breakdown: Boat ₹12,500, Net ₹2,500) |
Note: You can claim this benefit again after a waiting period of at least 6 years.
Eligibility
To apply for this support, you need to meet the following conditions:
- You must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community.
- You should be at least 18 years of age.
- You must be actively involved in inland fisheries.
- You can apply as an individual, registered society, self-help group, association, or private unit.
- You should have a personal bank account in your own name for the release of funds.
- You must have valid identification documents such as an Aadhar Card, Voter ID, or Ration Card.
Application Process
You can apply online through the I-Khedut Portal. The process is simple and done fully online.
STEP 1 - Visit the official I-Khedut portal and click on 'Login'.
STEP 2 - Choose 'Beneficiary Registration' and select your category, which can be Farmer or Institutional.
STEP 3 - Enter your personal or company details, including your district, taluka, and village.
STEP 4 - Add your bank account information, solve the captcha, and click on 'Save and Next'.
STEP 5 - Verify your mobile number with an OTP and set a secure password for your account.
STEP 6 - Login again, go to the 'Schemes' section and select 'Agricultural Schemes'.
STEP 7 - Find this scheme, click on 'Apply', fill the application form, and confirm your entry.
STEP 8 - Download and keep a printout of the final application for your records.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before you start your application:
- Valid Proof of Identity (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Ration Card, or Passport)
- Bank Account Passbook
- Valid Scheduled Caste Certificate
References
View Official Scheme Guidelines
FAQ's
Who can apply for this scheme?
Individuals, societies, self-help groups (SHGs), associations, and private units active in the inland fisheries sector are eligible.
What is the main objective?
The scheme aims to boost fish production in local reservoirs while giving steady work to the Scheduled Caste community.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to apply.
What documents are needed?
You will need a copy of your bank passbook, a valid identity proof, and your caste certificate.
Do I need a personal bank account?
Yes, you should have an active bank account in your own name to receive the subsidy.
Is this scheme only for the Scheduled Caste community?
Yes, this scheme is made to support fishermen and fish farmers from the Scheduled Caste community.
Where should I submit my application?
You can submit your application online through the official I-Khedut Portal.
Can I apply if I am not involved in inland fisheries?
No, active involvement in inland fisheries is a required condition for eligibility.
How often can I get this benefit?
Eligible people can claim the assistance once every 6 years.