LSMFDFBP

Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period

5.5/10

Livelihood Support to Marine Fishermen during the Fishing Ban Period scheme under the Department of Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Government of Odisha aims to support the livelihood of marine fisher families.

State Cash

States / UT: Odisha

Nodal department: Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Scheme open date: 2016-04-01

Categories: Agriculture,Rural & Environment

Sub-categories: Fishing and hunting, Financial assistance

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Fishermen, Livelihood, Financial Assistance

Details

Livelihood Support to Marine Fishermen during the Fishing Ban Period Scheme under the Department of Fisheries & Animal Resources Development, Government of Odisha aims to support the livelihood of marine fisher families. This scheme is under the state sector Umbrella Scheme Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana (MMKY). The scheme supports the livelihood of marine fisher families in and around the turtle nesting and breeding areas of the state including round the year fishing ban in Bhitarkanika areas as no alternative is available. As the livelihood earning of fishermen is solely based on sea fishing and the ban on fishing directly prohibits the profession over a long period of seven months in a year (1st November to 31st May) (both days inclusive) along with a Uniform ban from 15th April to 14th June (61 days).
Area of Operation:
The Scheme shall be implemented in the Marine Districts of Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, and Ganjam along the Coastline of Odisha where the marine Fishers who are affected due to the ban on fishing round the year at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Bhitarkanika National park and adjoining areas of Devi River and Rushikulya River Mouth for Sea Turtle Conservation.

Benefits

  • 1. Only one member of the affected families shall be assisted with ₹15,000/- annually under the scheme. 1. The amount shall be paid to the beneficiaries between November and March of a financial year in one Installment. 1. The assistance amount shall be released to the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer
  1. Only one member of the affected families shall be assisted with ₹15,000/- annually under the scheme.
  2. The amount shall be paid to the beneficiaries between November and March of a financial year in one Installment.
  3. The assistance amount shall be released to the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer.

Eligibility

The following are the eligibility criteria for the beneficiary:

  1. The beneficiary must be an active Marine fisherman.
  2. The assistance will be provided to only one member of a family on behalf of the family.
  3. The beneficiary must be in the age group of 18-70 years.
  4. The beneficiary must be a permanent resident of Odisha and must possess identity and residential proof including an Aadhaar card.
  5. The beneficiary must have a bank account in his/her name in the state of Odisha.
  6. The beneficiary must be a boat owner (Motorized Boat)/ a crew member of a Motorized Boat / Fish trader/ engaged in sorting, and grading Fish, and other ancillary activities.
  7. The Fishers should preferably belong to the BPL Category i.e. covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and not belong to the automatically excluded household under the socio-economic and caste census (SECC)-2011.
  8. If the fisherman is a Boat Owner, he must have valid registration (Real Craft) and a valid fishing license.
  9. If the fisherman is a crew member, he must work in a registered fishing boat with a valid date fishing license and will produce a certificate from the boat owner in this respect.
  10. If the fisherman is a Fish trader / engaged in sorting, grading of Fish, and other ancillary activities he must produce a certificate from a registered boat owner in this respect.

Note:
Preference of selection of beneficiaries shall be undertaken in the order of:

  1. Boat Owner.
  2. Crew member of a fishing boat.
  3. workers engaged in sorting, grading, and other ancillary activities.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

5.5
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 7.0/10 Good
Application complexity 7.0/10 Challenging
Financial impact 6.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 7.0/10 Challenging
Women inclusivity 5.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 4.0/10 Moderate
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact6.0
  • Rural utility7.0
  • Awareness4.0
  • Simplicity3.0
  • Inclusivity5.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides essential financial support to marine fishermen during the fishing ban period, addressing their livelihood challenges.

Key challenges addressed

  • Loss of income during fishing ban
  • Support for marine fisher families

Most beneficial for

  • Active marine fishermen
  • Families dependent on fishing

Likely challenges

  • Awareness of eligibility criteria
  • Complex application process

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme is practical but requires significant effort from beneficiaries to navigate the application process.

Rural challenges

  • Limited awareness of the scheme
  • Access to fisheries offices may be difficult

Digital challenges

  • Low digital literacy among target beneficiaries
  • Limited online application options

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Verification delays
  • Dependency on local officials

Awareness challenges

  • Low outreach and communication about the scheme

Application analysis

Application mode
Offline office
Documents burden
Moderate, requires identity and residency proof
Verification complexity
Moderate, involves multiple verification steps
Office dependency
High, requires interaction with local fisheries offices
DBT dependency
Yes, benefits are provided through Direct Benefit Transfer
CSC support
Limited, primarily offline process
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate, requires gathering documents and visiting offices

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach High
  • Gender reach Moderate
  • Target income group Low-income marine fishermen
  • Occupation reach Marine fishermen and related occupations

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Annually
Benefit practicality
Practical for supporting families during the fishing ban
Financial meaningfulness
Moderately meaningful, as ₹15,000 can provide temporary relief
Long-term impact
Potentially positive if beneficiaries can sustain their livelihoods post-ban

Plain-language guidance

This scheme helps marine fishermen in Odisha by providing financial support during the fishing ban. Eligible fishermen can receive ₹15,000 annually to support their families.

Who should apply
Active marine fishermen aged 18-70 who are residents of Odisha.
Who may struggle
Semi-literate individuals and those unfamiliar with the application process.
Best application route
Apply via local fisheries office with required documents.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Offline

Application Process:

  1. The scheme shall be advertised through the Departmental website, newspapers, and wall posters in the District and Block Fisheries Offices across the state.

  2. Interested eligible beneficiaries/fishermen shall apply in the prescribed format devised by the Department to the Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine) of the district through the concerned Assistant Fisheries Officers (AFOs) (ME Unit) (refer to page no.4 of guidelines). 1. The applicant shall attach the self-attested photocopy of the required document along with the application and show the original document at the time of submission of the application to the designated Receiving and Verifying Officer i.e. AFO Marine Extension unit.
    Post-Application Processes:

  3. After receipt of application forms the Receiving and Verifying Officer i.e. Assistant Fisheries Officer Marine Extension unit shall scrutinize the application and forward the same to the Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine).

  4. A District Level Committee will be formed under the chairmanship of the Sub-Collector (concerned Sub-Division) along with Addl. Fisheries Officer (Marine) as a member convener for the finalization of the beneficiary list. The other members of the committee are the Tahasildar of the concerned Tehsil; a representative of the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department; PRI Representatives, and an Office bearer of concerned marine PFCS.

  5. The Committee of the concerned district will approve the applications after necessary cross-checks made at their level and recommend for release of assistance. The final list of the beneficiaries will be prepared by the Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine) and the same will be forwarded to the Directorate for uploading to the website.

  6. The respective Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine) shall release the assistance amount to the beneficiaries through DBT.

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What is the aim of the scheme?

The scheme aims to support the livelihood of marine fisher families in and around the turtle nesting and breeding areas of the state.

By which department was this scheme launched?

Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department, Odisha

When was this scheme launched?

The scheme was launched in the financial year 2016-17.

In which months is fishing prohibited?

Fishing is prohibited from 1st November to 31st May (both days inclusive) every year along with a Uniform ban from 15th April to 14th June (61 days).

In which districts shall this scheme be implemented?

The Scheme shall be implemented in the Marine Districts of Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, and Ganjam along the Coastline of Odisha where the marine Fishers who are affected due to the ban on fishing round the year at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Bhitarkanika National park and adjoining areas of Devi River and Rushikulya River Mouth for Sea Turtle Conservation.

How much financial assistance will be given to the beneficiary?

The financial assistance of ₹15,000/- per year will be given to eligible beneficiaries under the scheme.

When will the amount of financial assistance be paid to the beneficiary?

The amount shall be paid to the beneficiaries between November to March of a financial year in one installment.

Is this scheme only for a resident of Odisha?

Yes, the beneficiary must be a permanent resident of Odisha and must possess identity and residential proof including Aadhaar Card.

What is the age criterion to apply under the scheme?

The beneficiary must be in the age group of 18-70 years.

How many members of a family will be eligible for the financial assistance?

The assistance will be provided to only one member of a family on behalf of the family.

Is there any order of preference for the selection of beneficiaries?

Yes, the preference of selection of beneficiaries shall be undertaken in the order of (1) Boat Owner (2) Crew member of the fishing boat (3) workers engaged in sorting, grading, and other ancillary activities.

By whom will this scheme be implemented?

The scheme will be implemented by the Director of Fisheries, Odisha represented through the Additional Fisheries Officers (Marine) of the concerned district.

How Can I apply for the scheme?

The eligible fishermen shall apply in the prescribed format devised by the Department to the Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine) of the district through the concerned Assistant Fisheries Officers (ME Unit).

References

Guideline
https://fard.odisha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-10/14.%20Livelihood%20Support%20to%20Marine%20Fishermen%20during%20Fishing%20Ban%20Period.PDF

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Agriculture,Rural & Environment, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Eligibility for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Benefits under Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period is managed by Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Applications for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is income certificate required for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period.
Is Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period available in all states?
No, Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period is primarily available for eligible residents of Odisha and may be implemented through state government departments and local administrative offices.
Can residents outside Odisha apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Eligibility for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period is generally limited to residents of Odisha unless otherwise specified in the official scheme guidelines.
Can small and marginal farmers apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Eligible small and marginal farmers may apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period subject to land ownership records, income eligibility, and agricultural beneficiary criteria.
Does Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period provide subsidy support for farmers?
Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period may provide agricultural subsidies, financial assistance, crop support, irrigation benefits, insurance coverage, or farming-related welfare assistance depending on the scheme structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Are there deadlines for applying to Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Some schemes may operate through fixed application windows, annual registration cycles, or department-specific deadlines depending on scheme implementation policies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period in Odisha?
Users in Odisha may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with Livelihood Support To Marine Fishermen During Fishing Ban Period applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.