What this scheme offers
Sea fishing is dangerous work with income that depends entirely on weather and season, and West Bengal's coastal fishing communities have historically borne that risk with little institutional support. This scheme responds on three fronts at once: ₹5 lakh sea accident insurance covers the genuine physical risk of the occupation, a ₹1,500 monthly allowance during the lean fishing season bridges the months when boats simply can't go out, and subsidies on diesel and ice address the two input costs that eat most heavily into a fishing trip's margins.
Who is eligible
- Registered fisherman/fisherwoman in West Bengal's coastal or inland fishing communities.
- Engaged in fishing as a primary occupation.
- Registered with the Department of Fisheries.
- Valid boat/fishing licence, where applicable to the specific benefit claimed.
Documents required
- Aadhaar card
- Fisheries department registration proof
- Boat/fishing licence, where applicable
- Bank account details (Aadhaar-linked)
- Residential proof
How to apply
- Register with your local Fisheries Department office or at fisheries.wb.gov.in if online registration is available in your district.
- Submit proof of your fishing occupation and any existing boat/licence documentation.
- Once registered, sea accident insurance coverage applies automatically to registered fishermen.
- Apply separately for the lean-season allowance when the seasonal window opens, and for diesel/ice subsidies through your local fisheries cooperative or department office.
- Keep your registration renewed and your bank details current to avoid delays in seasonal disbursements.