Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana provides money help to individuals, Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Arunachal Pradesh. This scheme offers a 45% government subsidy linked with bank loans to improve aquaculture infrastructure and support self-reliant fish farming for poor and left-out communities. Applications are invited for the 2025-26 financial year through the Department of Fisheries portal.
Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana - Introduction
Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana helps fish farmers across Arunachal Pradesh build a long-term future. Launched by the Department of Fisheries, this scheme encourages self-reliant practices by giving essential financial support to Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals, SHGs, and local FPOs.
By joining credit with a front-ended subsidy, this scheme helps upgrade aquaculture infrastructure and improve income. District Fisheries Development Officers (DFDOs) run the scheme under the guidance of District Level Screening Committees (DLSCs). The official details and guidelines are now available on the Department of Fisheries website at meen.arunachal.gov.in.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | Arunachal Pradesh |
| Category | Agriculture, Rural & Environment, Banking, Financial Services and Insurance |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, Self Help Groups (SHGs) |
| Benefit Type | Cash Subsidy |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Fisheries Department |
Benefits
This scheme offers a clear financial support model to help succeed in fish farming:
| Category | Funding Share |
|---|---|
| Government Subsidy | 45% |
| Bank Loan (Credit-Linked) | 45% |
| Beneficiary Contribution | 10% |
For example, if the total project cost is ₹1,00,000, only ₹10,000 needs to be invested, while the bank covers ₹45,000 and the government provides a ₹45,000 subsidy.
Eligibility
For Individual Farmers
- Should belong to the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Must be a permanent resident of the state.
- Should be between 18 and 60 years of age.
- Should not be a bank defaulter or a government servant.
- Should have prior experience in aquaculture and own suitable land for the project.
For Self Help Groups (SHGs)
The group must be affiliated with the Arunachal Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (APRSLM) or NERCOMP (for Changlang) and be actively involved in fishery activities.
For Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs)
The FPO should be officially registered, have at least 100 shareholders, provide an audited balance sheet, and work mainly in the fisheries sector.
Application Process
Applications are invited every financial year, including the 2025-26 cycle. The application form is available at the office of the District Fisheries Development Officer and the official Department of Fisheries website.
STEP 1 - Visit the official Department of Fisheries website at Atma Nirbhar Matsya Palan Yojana page to check the latest guidelines and application details.
STEP 2 - Download the prescribed application form or collect it from the office of the District Fisheries Development Officer of the district.
STEP 3 - Fill in the form accurately and attach all required self-attested documents such as Aadhaar, ST certificate, and land holding proof.
STEP 4 - Submit the completed form to the DFDO office before the closing date and keep the acknowledgment receipt with a unique ID for records.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready for the application:
- Passport-size Photograph
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- ST Certificate
- Domicile Certificate or Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC)
- Proof of Land Holding (Annexure-I)
- Photocopy of first page of Bank Passbook
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the relevant Agri or Allied Department
References
For further details, refer to these official documents:
FAQ's
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Scheduled Tribe individuals, SHGs registered under APRSLM/NERCOMP, and FPOs engaged in fisheries within Arunachal Pradesh are eligible.
What is the financial breakdown of the subsidy?
The total project cost is divided into a 45% government subsidy, a 45% bank loan, and a 10% contribution from the beneficiary.
Is there an age restriction for the applicants?
Yes, applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old at the time of application.
Can government employees receive benefits?
No, the scheme is meant for individual farmers and groups, not government servants.
Is prior aquaculture experience necessary?
Yes, individuals and FPOs must have relevant experience, and SHGs must be actively working in the fisheries sector.
Which SHGs are allowed to participate?
Only those affiliated with the APRSLM (or NERCOMP for those in Changlang) may participate.
How are beneficiaries selected?
The District Level Screening Committee reviews all applications, and selection depends on fund availability and verification.
Where can I get help with my application?
Visit the district's DFDO office during regular office hours for guidance.
What criteria must my FPO meet?
The FPO must be registered, have at least 100 shareholders, and present an audited balance sheet.
Can I apply for this subsidy every year?
No, this is a one-time subsidy grant provided per financial year.