Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries
Fishery business grants for SC fishing communities in Gujarat · multiple sub-schemes available
Scheduled Caste fishermen and fish farmers in Gujarat can access multiple forms of financial support for inland fisheries — from free fish seed and training to subsidies on boats, nets, and fish sale equipment. The scheme covers almost every aspect of a fisherman's work, making it easier to grow and sell fish commercially. Apply online through the I-Khedut portal at ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in.
About This Scheme
Scheduled Caste fishermen and fish farmers in Gujarat can access multiple forms of financial support for inland fisheries — from free fish seed and training to subsidies on boats, nets, and fish sale equipment. The scheme covers almost every aspect of a fisherman's work, making it easier to grow and sell fish commercially. Apply online through the I-Khedut portal at ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in.
Full official description
The scheme "Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries" introduced by the Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Cooperation Department, Gujarat, is designed to boost inland fisheries by supporting Scheduled Caste fishermen and fish farmers. It provides assistance for fish seed rearing, stocking, and transportation, as well as financial aid for boats, nets, and fish sale equipment. Additionally, training programs with stipends are available to enhance skills and productivity in the fisheries sector.
Benefits
- 100% coverage of fish seed and prawn seed costs including transportation
- 50% subsidy on boats and nets: up to ₹7,500 (tin boat) or ₹15,000 (FRP boat)
- 75% subsidy on fish collection/patrolling boat: up to ₹3.75 lakh
- 75% subsidy on four-wheel fish transport vehicle: up to ₹4.50 lakh
- 50% subsidy on fish sale equipment set: up to ₹7,500
- Training stipend of ₹1,250 after completing a 10-day training course
💡 Why Startups Should Care
BlueEconomy or aquaculture startups in Gujarat — understanding this subsidy ecosystem helps you design products and financing models that align with how SC fishing communities fund their operations. Government-backed demand exists for better inputs.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category
- Must be above 18 years of age
- Must be involved in inland fisheries (fishing, fish farming, or related activities)
- Can be an individual, society, SHG, association, reservoir lessee, or private unit
- Must have a personal bank account
How to Apply
- Identify the specific sub-scheme relevant to your fisheries activity (boat, nets, seed stocking, etc.).
- Visit your nearest Fisheries Department office or the iKhedut portal.
- Submit the application with required documents.
- Department verifies eligibility and processes the grant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the objective of the "Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries" scheme?
The objective of the "Assistance to Scheduled Castes for Fisheries" scheme is to increase fish production by rearing fish in reservoirs and to provide employment opportunities to Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals involved in inland fisheries.
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Individuals, societies, self-help groups, associations, reservoir monopolies, and private units engaged in inland fisheries can apply. The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category, be above 18 years of age, and have a valid bank account.
Can a Scheduled Tribe (ST) individual apply for this scheme?
No, this scheme is exclusively for Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals involved in inland fisheries.
What financial assistance is provided for fish seed rearing?
The scheme provides the following assistance for fish seed rearing:
[?]90/- per 1000 spawn to fry (30% recovery). [?]260/- per 1000 fry to fingerlings (35% recovery). [?]460/- per 1000 spawn to fingerlings (12% recovery).
Is there any support provided for fish seed stocking?
Yes, 100% assistance is provided for the cost of fish seed and transportation for Scheduled Caste (SC) beneficiaries.
Does the scheme offer support for prawn seed stocking?
Yes, 100% assistance is provided to Scheduled Caste (SC) lessees for the total cost of prawn seed and transportation.
What assistance is available for purchasing boats and nets?
50% assistance is provided for the Tin Boat & Net (up to [?]7,500/-). 50% assistance is provided for the F.R.P. Boat & Net (up to [?]15,000/-).
Can the benefits of this scheme be availed more than once?
Some benefits, such as boat and net assistance and training, can be availed only once in a lifetime, while fish seed and prawn seed stocking can be availed annually.
What is the minimum time limit for reclaiming benefits?
The minimum time limit varies:
Fish seed rearing & stocking: 1 year. Boat & net assistance: 6 years. Fish collection and patrolling boat: Once in a lifetime.
How can an applicant apply for this scheme?
The applicant must apply online through the i-Khedut portal (https://ikhedut.gujarat.gov.in) and upload the necessary documents.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Caste certificate (Scheduled Caste)
- Aadhaar card
- Proof of fishing activity or licence
- Bank passbook
- Land or water body details (where applicable)