AI SummaryPromotion of Intensive Aquaculture Through Introduction of Bio-floc Technology is a scheme of the Odisha government that helps farmers, entrepreneurs, and unemployed youth set up high-yield fish and shrimp farming in small spaces. The scheme continues under the Matsya Mission (MMKY) umbrella, and the government released a revised guideline for the financial year 2025-26 with the same subsidy support for eligible people.
Bio-floc technology uses helpful micro-organisms to keep the water clean and feed the stock at the same time. This lets a farmer raise more fish or shrimp per tank without needing large ponds. The scheme pays part of the unit cost directly to the bank account of the eligible person, which makes starting a modern aquaculture unit easier for people in Odisha.
Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture Through Introduction of Bio-floc Technology - Overview
This scheme was first run for the year 2021-22 and is now continued under the MMKY scheme for the financial year 2025-26. The Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha has published a revised guideline for the Bio-floc component, so the current rules and subsidy figures given below are the latest ones available as of August 2026.
The main aim of the scheme is to promote intensive and sustainable aquaculture. Farmers can set up Bio-floc tanks with PVC or tarpaulin material, along with the required water supply, drainage, and aeration units, using the financial help given under the scheme.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture Through Introduction of Bio-floc Technology |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Odisha |
| Implemented Under | Matsya Mission (MMKY), FY 2025-26 |
| Benefit Type | Subsidy (In Kind) |
| Nodal Department | Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department, Odisha |
| Official Website | fisheries.odisha.gov.in |
Financial Support and Subsidy Structure
The subsidy is paid based on the number of Bio-floc tanks a person sets up. General category people get 40% of the unit cost, while SC, ST, and women get 60% of the unit cost. The payment is made through Direct Benefit Transfer into the Aadhaar-linked bank account.
The unit cost and subsidy amount depend on the number of tanks in one unit, as shown below:
| Unit Size | Total Subsidy Amount |
|---|---|
| 2 Tanks (one unit) | ₹1.5 lakh |
| 4 Tanks (one unit) | ₹3 lakh |
| 6 Tanks (one unit) | ₹4 lakh |
The subsidy is released in two parts. A part of the amount is paid after the Bio-floc unit is set up, and the remaining amount is paid as a back-ended subsidy once the project is completed. The unit must be built as per the design and specifications given in the official guideline.
Benefits
Bio-floc farming gives several practical advantages to a farmer who wants to grow fish or shrimp in a small area. The main benefits are listed below:
- Higher production: Bio-floc technology keeps oxygen, ammonia, and nitrate levels under control, which creates a healthier environment and can raise production by up to 300 kg per tank.
- Less water use: The method reduces the need for frequent water exchange, so the farmer saves water and keeps the pond clean for a long time.
- Lower running cost: Since water exchange is reduced and natural feed grows inside the tank, the daily operating cost comes down.
Eligibility
People who want to apply should meet the conditions given in the official guideline. The eligibility points are:
- The applicant should be a farmer, nursery operator, seed tank operator, or private entrepreneur involved in freshwater fish or brackish water shrimp farming.
- Priority is given to educated unemployed youth of Odisha who are willing to take the required Bio-floc training before starting the unit.
- Brackish water shrimp farm and hatchery operators 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 per person.
Documents Required
The applicant has to keep the following documents ready while applying for the scheme:
- Aadhaar Card as identification proof
- Photocopy of land holding documents
- Consent letter from the bank if a loan has already been taken
- Bank account passbook or statement with IFSC code for the DBT payment
- Self-declaration statement
Application Process
To apply for the scheme, the applicant can follow the steps given below. The application form is part of the scheme guideline PDF, and it can be submitted in person or by email.
STEP 1 - Visit the official website of the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha at fisheries.odisha.gov.in and open the notice or guideline section for Bio-floc technology under MMKY.
STEP 2 - Download the revised guideline PDF for the Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture through Bio-floc Technology for the financial year 2025-26.
STEP 3 - Read the technical specifications and fill the application form given in the guideline with all the required details.
STEP 4 - Attach the required documents such as Aadhaar, land records, and bank details with the filled form.
STEP 5 - Submit the completed application to the concerned District Fisheries Officer in person or send it by email to the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha, Cuttack at director.odifish.inland@gmail.com. Keep a printed copy of the submission for reference.
References
Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha - Official Website
Revised Guideline for Bio-floc Technology under MMKY 2025-26 (PDF)
Fisheries Schemes - Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department
FAQ's
What is the main objective of this scheme?
The scheme promotes intensive and sustainable aquaculture in Odisha by helping farmers set up Bio-floc units that give higher fish and shrimp production in small areas.
What is Bio-floc technology?
Bio-floc is a farming method where carbohydrate-based feed is added to grow helpful micro-organisms. These organisms form clusters that clean the water and also act as extra food for the fish and shrimp.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Farmers, nursery and seed tank operators, hatchery operators, and private entrepreneurs in Odisha can apply. Educated unemployed youth who complete the Bio-floc training are given priority.
How much subsidy is available?
General category people get 40% of the unit cost, while SC, ST, and women get 60% of the unit cost. For a 6-tank unit, the total subsidy is ₹4 lakh.
How can the application be submitted?
The filled application form can be submitted in person to the District Fisheries Officer or sent by email to the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha, Cuttack.