The Department of Fisheries, Andaman and Nicobar Administration has invited applications from fishermen and tribal communities for financial assistance under its Union Territory Plan scheme that supports the purchase of life-saving appliances, firefighting equipment, and navigational tools. The scheme, designed for the year 2025-26, aims to enhance maritime safety and strengthen fishing practices in the archipelago.
Fishing is a primary livelihood in the islands, but it remains vulnerable to risks ranging from unpredictable weather to navigational hazards. Recognizing the need for better safety and operational efficiency, the scheme offers subsidies on critical equipment such as Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, Very High Frequency (VHF) radios, Digital Addressable Transmitters (DAT), fire extinguishers, and life-saving appliances.
The subsidy pattern has been set at 50 percent for general fishermen and 75 percent for tribal fishers. The benefits apply to those possessing non-motorized, motorized, or mechanized fishing boats. By easing the financial burden of procuring safety and navigation gear, the administration seeks to encourage widespread adoption of modern equipment that can reduce accidents at sea and improve response capacity during emergencies.
Eligibility criteria require applicants to be bona fide fishermen or members of tribal fishing communities in the islands. They must own registered non-motorized, motorized, or mechanized fishing crafts and hold a valid fishing license for at least two consecutive years, including the current year. These conditions ensure that assistance reaches active practitioners with a proven record of engagement in the sector.
Application forms and detailed guidelines are available through the Directorate of Fisheries, Zonal Fisheries Offices, and Fisheries Sub-Stations across the islands. The information is also accessible on the official website of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, offering broader reach to applicants in remote areas. The completed applications must be submitted by September 30 to the nearest Zonal Fisheries Office or Sub-Station.
The scheme highlights the administration’s commitment to safeguarding both livelihoods and lives. Fishing is not only economically vital but also culturally significant in the islands, making safety measures a priority. Equipment such as GPS and VHF radios can help fishermen navigate safely, avoid restricted zones, and stay connected during emergencies. Firefighting appliances and life-saving gear, meanwhile, can prevent small mishaps from escalating into life-threatening situations.
For tribal fishing communities, who often rely on traditional non-motorized craft, the higher subsidy offers a pathway to modernization without eroding cultural practices. By integrating safety and navigation equipment with traditional methods, the scheme strikes a balance between heritage and progress.
The fisheries sector has faced repeated challenges in recent years, including adverse weather conditions, declining fish stocks, and occasional accidents at sea. This initiative is expected to mitigate some of these risks by equipping fishermen with tools that enhance both efficiency and security. Improved navigation systems also contribute to better fishing practices, reducing fuel costs and saving time, while safety gear minimizes the risk of casualties during unforeseen incidents.
The administration’s emphasis on timely application underscores the importance of planning before the onset of harsher weather cycles. With the deadline set for September 30, fishermen and tribal communities have a narrow window to apply, making prompt action essential.
Ultimately, the scheme represents more than financial aid, it is an investment in resilience. By reducing the vulnerabilities faced by fishing communities, it strengthens food security, sustains livelihoods, and ensures that those who depend on the sea for survival can return home safely.
If effectively implemented and widely adopted, the programme could set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at empowering island communities through targeted subsidies and modern technology integration.
