Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries: Prawn Seed Stocking Gujarat
Prawn seed stocking subsidy for SC fishermen · Gujarat coastal areas
SC fishermen who hold reservoir leases in Gujarat can get 100% of prawn seed purchase and transportation costs paid by the government. The scheme supports aquaculture income by removing the upfront cost of stocking reservoirs with prawns. Apply via the I-Khedut portal at ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in.
About This Scheme
SC fishermen who hold reservoir leases in Gujarat can get 100% of prawn seed purchase and transportation costs paid by the government. The scheme supports aquaculture income by removing the upfront cost of stocking reservoirs with prawns. Apply via the I-Khedut portal at ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in.
Full official description
The scheme “Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries" with the component "Prawn Seed Stocking”, introduced by the Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Co-operation Department, Government of Gujarat, aims to increase fish production by rearing fish in reservoirs and to provide employment to Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals involved in inland fisheries activities. Through this scheme, 100% assistance is provided for the cost of prawn seed and its transportation to Scheduled Caste lessees of reservoirs. The scheme is implemented by the Commissioner of Fisheries, Government of Gujarat. Objectives:
- To increase fish production by rearing fish in reservoirs and provide employment to scheduled caste (SC) people involved in inland fisheries activities.
- To boost fish farming or fishing activities in freshwater bodies by scheduled caste (SC) fish farmers and fishermen.
- Fishing in reservoirs, aquaculture in ponds, and catch from rivers increase fish production and boost inland fisheries through scheduled caste (SC) fish farmers and fishermen.
- The main objective is to provide employment opportunities to Scheduled Caste fishermen in the state and increase fish production.
Benefits
- 100% of prawn seed cost covered
- 100% of transportation cost covered
- Can reapply for the same benefit after 1 year
💡 Why Startups Should Care
Aquaculture and seafood export startups in Gujarat — prawn farming among SC coastal communities is government-subsidised. If you're building a premium seafood supply chain, this community is an under-tapped source of traceable, subsidised production.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community
- Must be above 18 years of age
- Must be involved in inland fisheries activities
- Can be an individual, society, SHG, association, reservoir lessee, or private unit
- Must have a personal bank account
- Must have valid ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Ration Card, or Passport)
How to Apply
- Visit the nearest Fisheries Department office.
- Apply for Prawn Seed Stocking sub-scheme under SC Fisheries.
- Submit required documents and details of the stocking site.
- Department verifies eligibility and releases subsidy for certified prawn seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can get the benefit for prawn seed and its transportation cost?
The benefit is available only to Scheduled Caste (SC) lessees of reservoirs involved in inland fisheries activities.
Is financial help given for both prawn seed and transportation?
Yes, 100% assistance is given, covering the full cost of prawn seed and its transportation.
How often can one receive the benefit for prawn seed stocking?
This benefit is provided once in a year to eligible SC reservoir lessees.
Can someone below 18 years of age apply for this benefit?
No, the applicant must be above 18 years of age to be eligible.
Do I need to have a bank account to apply for this benefit?
Yes, the applicant must have their own bank account to receive the assistance.
Is there an online platform to apply for the prawn seed benefit?
Yes, the application must be submitted through the iKhedut portal (https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in).
What is the main objective of giving free prawn seed and transport cost?
The aim is to increase fish production in reservoirs and provide employment to Scheduled Caste fishermen.
Can I apply if I am part of a self-help group involved in fisheries?
Yes, self-help groups involved in inland fisheries activities are eligible to apply.
Will I receive cash for buying the seed or the department provides the seed directly?
The assistance covers the cost directly, but the mode of disbursement is not specified in the provided details.
What is the duration of the assistance for prawn seed stocking?
The assistance for prawn seed stocking is provided for a duration of 1 year.
Is the scheme only for fishermen?
The scheme is for Scheduled Caste individuals involved in inland fisheries activities, including fish farmers and fishermen.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Caste certificate (SC)
- Aadhaar card
- Water body or tidal flat access proof
- Bank passbook