In a significant move to uplift marginalized fishing communities across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Department of Fisheries has announced a subsidy scheme under the Union Territory Plan. The programme aims to support eligible individuals and groups in acquiring motorized or mechanized fishing boats to enhance fish production and economic resilience.
The subsidy structure offers 75% financial assistance to members of Scheduled Tribes and Tribal Cooperative Societies. For general fishers, fisheries cooperatives, and local entrepreneurs, the scheme provides a 50% subsidy on boat costs, as assessed by the department.
The initiative is open to applicants from both municipal and tribal areas, signaling a comprehensive attempt to make fishing-based livelihoods more sustainable and inclusive. Applicants can collect forms and scheme guidelines from the Directorate of Fisheries, Zonal Offices in South Andaman and Nicobar, and nearby Fisheries Sub-Stations.
Completed applications must be submitted to the respective zonal or sub-station offices by May 31, 2025. The scheme’s official details, including eligibility criteria and application procedures, are available at https://www.andaman.gov.in.
This move comes amid growing concerns over the economic vulnerability of traditional fishing communities and is expected to improve access to marine resources while promoting mechanized fishing practices.
