Are you a fisherwoman or part of a fisherwomen’s self-help group (SHG) or cooperative society in Puducherry? Do you want to expand your business by reaching underserved areas with fresh and processed seafood? The Grant of Subsidy for Purchase of Mobile Sea Food Van scheme, launched under the “Puducherry Development of Shore Based Facilities, Ice Plants, Service Unit, Infrastructural Facilities, and Quick Transport Facilities Rules, 2010,” is here to help. This initiative aims to empower fisherwomen by providing them with subsidized mobile seafood vans to enhance their livelihoods. Here’s everything you need to know about this transformative scheme.
What is the Mobile Sea Food Van Subsidy Scheme?
This subsidy scheme, introduced by the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare, Government of Puducherry, supports fisherwomen, SHGs, and cooperative societies in purchasing mobile seafood vans. These vans are equipped with essential tools such as insulated ice-boxes, cooking utensils, and accessories to ensure the sale of hygienic and affordable seafood products in areas lacking regular markets. The scheme promotes entrepreneurship among fisherwomen while addressing gaps in seafood distribution.
Key Benefits of the Scheme
- Subsidy on Mobile Seafood Vans
- Beneficiaries receive a 75% subsidy on the total cost of the van, including fabrication, equipment, and accessories.
- The remaining 25% is covered through a bank loan.
- Comprehensive Equipment Support
- The subsidy covers the cost of essential items like an insulated ice-box, a two-burner stove, cooking utensils, and other accessories required for fish preparation and sales.
- Hygiene and Affordability
- The scheme emphasizes maintaining high hygiene standards and offering seafood products at competitive prices to benefit consumers.
- Empowerment of Fisherwomen
- By targeting fisherwomen, SHGs, and cooperative societies, the scheme fosters economic empowerment and community development.
Eligibility Conditions
To qualify for the subsidy, applicants must meet the following criteria;
- Community: The applicant must belong to the fishing community.
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry by birth or domicile.
- Age: The applicant must be between 18 and 50 years old.
- Employment Status: The applicant should not be employed in any government, government undertaking, or society (part-time or full-time).
- Membership: The applicant must be a non-overdue member of the Primary Fisheries Co-operative Society.
- Group Eligibility: Fisherwomen self-help groups (SHGs) or cooperative societies registered under the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) or Puducherry Urban Development Agency are also eligible.
How to Apply – Offline Process
The application process for this scheme is entirely offline. Follow these steps to apply;
- Visit the Office => Go to the Office/Sub-Office of the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare.
- Request Application Form => Obtain the prescribed hard copy of the application form from the concerned authority.
- Fill Out the Form => Complete all mandatory fields in the application form, paste a passport-sized photograph (if required), and attach copies of all necessary documents (self-attested, if needed).
- Submit the Application => Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the required documents to the concerned authority.
- Get Acknowledgment => Request a receipt or acknowledgment slip containing details like the submission date, time, and unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
Ensure you have the following documents ready before applying;
- Aadhaar Card.
- Proof of Age (e.g., Birth Certificate).
- Residential Certificate of the Union Territory of Puducherry.
- Copy of Food Sharing Card.
- Voter ID/Birth Certificate.
- Caste Certificate.
- Registration Certificate of the Cooperative/SHG.
- Proof of Membership with the Cooperative/SHG.
- Price Quotations of Equipment Used for Fish Preparation.
- Certificates of Training on Fish Product Preparation.
- Proof of Experience in Fish Product Preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1 Is there a provision for extending the age limit beyond 50 under special circumstances?
No, the age limit is strictly between 18 and 50 years, with no exemptions.
Q.2 Can a fisherwoman self-help group apply directly for the scheme?
Yes, SHGs and cooperative societies registered under DRDA or Puducherry Urban Development Agency can apply.
Q.3 How does the scheme ensure that fish products are sold at competitive prices?
The scheme mandates that beneficiaries sell seafood at affordable rates to benefit the public.
Q.4 What is the role of the Joint Director of Fisheries in fund disbursement?
The Joint Director of Fisheries oversees the verification of applications and ensures the timely release of the subsidy amount.
Q.5 Is training mandatory for applicants?
While not explicitly mandatory, having certificates of training on fish product preparation strengthens the application.
Q.6 Can the subsidy be used for purposes other than purchasing the van?
No, the subsidy is exclusively for purchasing and equipping the mobile seafood van.
Q.7 What role does field enquiry play in the application process?
Field enquiries are conducted to verify the authenticity of the applicant’s claims and ensure compliance with eligibility criteria.
Why Choose the Mobile Sea Food Van Subsidy Scheme?
This scheme is more than just financial assistance—it’s an opportunity for fisherwomen to grow their businesses, reach new markets, and contribute to their communities. By providing a 75% subsidy and supporting the purchase of essential equipment, the scheme removes financial barriers and empowers beneficiaries to thrive in the seafood industry.
The Grant of Subsidy for Purchase of Mobile Sea Food Van scheme is a game-changer for fisherwomen and cooperative societies in Puducherry. It addresses key challenges like market access, hygiene, and affordability while promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth. If you’re ready to take your seafood business to the next level, don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Visit your nearest Department of Fisheries office today and start your journey toward success!
