The National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen is a plan by the government to help fishermen and their families in India. The scheme offers many benefits such as building homes, wells, and community halls. It also provides support for healthcare and education.
| Scheme Name | National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen |
| Launched By | Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched |
| Aim | Provide financial assistance and welfare measures to fishermen and their families |
| Eligibility Criteria | Fishermen and their families across the country |
| Required Documents | Fishing license, Identity proof, BPL certificate (if applicable) |
| Application Procedure | Offline through the Department of Fisheries in respective states |
| Benefits | Financial assistance for construction of houses, purchase of fishing equipment, educational assistance, and insurance coverage |
| Other Services | Training programs, health and sanitation programs, and access to credit facilities |
| Funding | Centrally Sponsored Scheme |
What Is the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen?
The National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen is a program by the government of India to help fishermen and improve their lives. It has two main parts: creating better villages for fishermen and giving them insurance in case of accidents. The villages have things like clean water, healthcare, community spaces, and communication. The insurance protects the fishermen when they are doing dangerous work.
Objectives of National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen
The main objectives of the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen include:
Provide basic necessities for fishermen:
Houses: Ensure safe and comfortable housing for fishermen.
Community centres: Establish gathering places for fishermen to socialise and engage in activities.
Tube wells for drinking water: Install clean water sources in fishing communities.
Ensure financial and social security for fishermen and their families:
Financial security: Implement insurance and assistance programs for economic stability.
Social security: Establish healthcare benefits, pensions, and welfare support.
Improve living conditions of fishermen:
Sanitation: Enhance waste management, clean toilets, and access to clean water.
Infrastructure development: Improve roads, bridges, and electricity in fishing villages.
Healthcare services: Increase access to medical care and health awareness.
Provide advanced technical education and training:
Technical education: Teach scientific fishing techniques for better productivity and sustainability.
Equipment training: Educate on proper equipment handling and maintenance.
Environmental awareness: Promote responsible fishing practices and environmental conservation.
Eligibility Criteria for Inland Fishermen:
To qualify for the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen as an inland fisherman, the following criteria must be met:
- The individual must be a resident of a recognized inland fishing village or community.
- The person should be engaged in fishing as their primary occupation.
- The annual income of the fisherman should not exceed a specified limit set by the scheme.
Eligibility Criteria for Marine Fishermen:
Marine fishermen can avail benefits under the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen if they fulfill the following conditions:
- The individual must be a resident of a coastal fishing village or community.
- Fishing should be their primary occupation.
- The annual income of the fisherman should not exceed a specified limit determined by the scheme.
Required Documents for the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen:
To apply for the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen, the following documents are generally required:
- Proof of residence in a recognized fishing village or community.
- Valid identification documents (such as Aadhaar card, voter ID card, or passport).
- Proof of occupation as a fisherman (e.g., fishing license, membership in fishermen’s association).
- Income certificate or relevant documents showing the annual income of the fisherman.
Features and Benefits of the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen:
- Financial Assistance: The scheme provides financial aid to eligible fishermen to support their livelihoods, enhance their fishing capabilities, and improve their overall socio-economic conditions.
- Skill Development and Training: The scheme emphasizes training and skill development programs to enhance the technical knowledge and skills of fishermen, promoting sustainable fishing practices and ensuring their safety at sea.
- Insurance Coverage: The scheme offers insurance coverage for fishermen and their families, providing financial security in the event of accidents, disability, or loss of life during fishing activities.
- Healthcare Support: The scheme includes provisions for accessible healthcare facilities, ensuring fishermen and their families receive adequate medical assistance, including preventive healthcare services.
- Welfare Programs: Various welfare initiatives are implemented to address the social and educational needs of fishermen and their families. These include scholarships for children, housing assistance, and community development projects
How to Apply for the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen?
Step-1:
Eligible fishermen visit the nearest FISHCOPFED office to apply for the government scheme.
Step-2:
The Association’s President or Secretary collects the contribution. Then send it to the designated nationalised bank accounts chosen by the Director of Fisheries.
Step-3:
The State and Central Governments match the fishermen’s contributions as allocated for them.
Step-4:
When the scheme matures, the authorities return the funds along with the total accrued interest to the fishermen.
Features and Benefits of the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen
The National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen has several features and benefits:
Housing Facility:
The scheme offers fishermen the opportunity to build houses.
The number of houses depends on the number of fishermen residing in a village.
Houses must have a base area within 35 sq. mt. and cost less than ₹75,000.
Houses are distributed equally among the fishermen.
Construction of Common Facility:
A community hall is built if a village has more than 75 houses.
The community hall serves as a mending shed and drying yard.
The hall has a base area of 200 sq. mt. and costs within ₹2 lakhs.
It includes two toilets and a tube well.
Assurance of Clean Drinking Water:
A tube well is provided for every 20 houses.
Additional tube wells are installed as needed.
An alternative option is available where tube well installation is not possible.
Insurance Facility:
Group accident insurance covers fishermen.
₹50,000 is provided in case of death or permanent total disability.
₹25,000 is provided for partial permanent disability.
The insurance cover is valid for 12 months.
Fishermen pay an annual premium of ₹15, with the government subsidising the remaining amount.
Saving cum relief:
Fishermen contribute ₹75 for 8 months.
The amount is matched by the State and Central Government on a 50:50 basis.
Refunds are provided if fishermen fail to make payments.
The specific provisions vary depending on the area and are decided by FISHCOPFED.
By taking advantage of the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen, individuals can access funds and build their own houses.
Application Process in General
The application process for the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen involves the following steps:
- Collect the application form from the local fisheries department or download it from the official website.
- Fill the application form accurately with all the necessary details.
- Attach the required documents with the application form.
- Submit the application form to the respective department.
- Upon submission, the department will verify the details provided.
- If the application is accepted, the benefits of the scheme are disbursed to the beneficiary’s bank account.
Summary
The National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen is a government-run scheme that provides financial assistance and welfare measures to fishermen and their families across India. The scheme aims to promote the welfare of fishing communities and improve their living standards. To avail of the benefits of this scheme, the applicant needs to fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents.
FAQ:
1. Can fishermen or members of fishermen's families involved in other income activities avail funds under the National Scheme of Welfare of Fishermen?
Yes, fishermen or their family members engaged in other income-generating activities can still avail funds under the scheme, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and fishing remains their primary occupation.
2. How many tube wells does this scheme provide for a fishermen village with more than 10 houses but less than 20 houses?
The number of tube wells provided under the scheme may vary depending on the specific requirements and local conditions of each fishermen village. It is recommended to contact the scheme authorities or local representatives for accurate information on the number of tube wells provided.
3. What is the national scheme for the welfare of fishermen and training and extension?
The national scheme for the welfare of fishermen and training and extension aims to improve the socio-economic conditions of fishermen by providing financial assistance, skill development, training programs, and various welfare initiatives. It focuses on empowering fishermen with the necessary knowledge, resources, and support to enhance their livelihoods sustainably.
4. What is the subsidy for fisheries in the India?
Subsidy schemes for fisheries in India can vary based on the specific region and state policies. These subsidies are designed to support the development of the fisheries sector, encourage sustainable fishing practices, and provide financial assistance to fishermen. The exact details of subsidies available in India can be obtained from the concerned fisheries department or government sources at the national, state, or local level.
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