Fishermen are the backbone of our fishing industry, but natural disasters can devastate their lives. Learn about various Natural Calamity Relief programs offered by the state and central government to support fishermen in times of need.
Fishermen play a vital role in the economic and social fabric of our nation. They provide us with fresh seafood, contribute significantly to exports, and preserve traditional fishing practices. However, their lives are inherently risky, and natural calamities can inflict immense damage on their livelihoods. To support these communities during challenging times, various government programs offer natural calamity relief to fishermen.
This article explores these relief programs, their eligibility criteria, and the application process. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions to ensure fishermen have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives after a disaster.
About
The Department of Fisheries, Government of Goa, is running a program called “Natural Calamity Relief to Fishermen of State.” Through this program, active fishermen who make contributions to the Fishermen Corpus Relief Fund and whose fishing vessels are destroyed or damaged as a result of natural disasters receive cash support. Only offline applications will be accepted.
Understanding Natural Calamity Relief Programs for Fishermen
Natural calamities encompass a wide range of events, including cyclones, floods, tsunamis, and earthquakes. These events can cause significant damage to fishing boats, equipment, and infrastructure, leaving fishermen with little means to resume their work.
Thankfully, several government programs offer financial assistance and other forms of support to help fishermen recover from such losses. These programs are typically implemented by the Department of Fisheries in collaboration with other government agencies, such as the Disaster Management Authority.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of natural calamity relief offered to fishermen:
- Financial Assistance: This is the most crucial form of relief, providing fishermen with grants or loans to repair or replace damaged boats, equipment, and gear.
- Input Subsidies: Schemes may offer subsidies on essential fishing inputs like fuel, nets, and ice boxes, reducing the financial burden on fishermen trying to get back on their feet.
- Livelihood Support: Certain programs provide temporary income support or alternative livelihood options for fishermen who cannot immediately resume fishing due to extensive damage.
- Infrastructure Repair: In some cases, government programs may assist in repairing damaged fishing harbors, piers, and other critical infrastructure used by the fishing community.
Benefits
Death or Total Disability
Death or Total Disability Occurred While Fishing in a Sea or River: ₹5,00,000 in the Event of Death or Total Disability Upon Production of the Needed Documentation.
Damage or Loss to Fishing Canoe
Fishing Canoe Partial Damage
Up to ₹1,00,000 is the actual value, determined by an authorized marine surveyor.
The entire loss or damage to the canoe with OBM is limited to ₹2,00,000 based on the actual value determined by an authorized marine surveyor.
Damage or Loss to Fishing Vessel
- one to four cylinders Fishing Vessel: Up to ₹7,00,000 is the actual value, as determined by an authorized marine surveyor.
- 6- to 8-cylinder Fishing Vessel: Up to ₹10,000,000 is the Actual Value, Determined by an Authorized Marine Surveyor.
Damage or Loss to Fishing Nets
- Gill Nets: The actual value, as determined by a Talathi, Marine Surveyor, or Authorized Fisheries Surveyor, cannot exceed ₹50,000.
- Rampon Nets: The actual value as determined by a marine surveyor, authorized fishermen’s surveyor, or Talathi is limited to ₹1,00,000/-.
- For a haul net, the actual value as determined by a marine surveyor, authorized fishermen’s surveyor, or Talathi is limited to ₹50,000/-.
- For a purseine net, the actual value as determined by a marine surveyor, authorized fishermen’s surveyor, or Talathi is limited to ₹5,00,000/-.
Eligibility for Natural Calamity Relief Programs
The eligibility criteria for these programs can vary depending on the specific scheme and the state government implementing it. However, some general criteria often include:
- The candidate ought to be a fisherman.
- The Fishermen Corpus Relief Fund was where the applicant ought to have been making contributions.
- Both the applicant’s mechanized fishing vessel (trawler) and non-motorized or motorized canoe should be registered with the Department of Fisheries.
- Natural disasters such floods, cyclones, tsunamis, and unintentional fires should have caused damage or loss to the applicant’s fishing vessels, engines, and motors.
- The applicant shouldn’t have a history of departmental defaults.The appropriate authority should confirm the applicant’s loss or injury.
Applying for Natural Calamity Relief
The application process for natural calamity relief typically involves:
- Registration: Fishermen need to register with the designated authorities, usually the local fisheries department office.
- Damage Assessment: Government officials will assess the extent of damage to boats, equipment, and infrastructure.
- Documentation: Fishermen must provide necessary documents like proof of identity, residence, fishing license, and damage assessment reports.
- Application Submission: Completed application forms with supporting documents need to be submitted to the concerned authorities.
Important Note: It’s crucial to stay updated on the latest natural calamity relief programs offered by your state government. Fisheries department websites and local fishermen’s associations are excellent resources for this information.
Documents Required
1) Photograph of the Applicant
2) Copy of the Vessel Registration Certificate
3) Copy of the Updated Fishing License Certificate
4) Copy of the Updated Fishing Net Licence
5) Copy of Updated Fishing Netbook.
6) Copy of Biometric Card/temporary ID Card
7) Inspection Report of Registered Fishing Vessel/ OBM/ Net in Original.
8) Copy of the Bank Passbook Along With the Mandate Form
9) Statement of Contribution for Fishermen Corpus Fund by Applicant
10) Post-mortem Report/ Missing Report/ Death Certificate
11) Panchanama Report
12) FIR Report
13) Copy of the Medical Certificate
14) Copy of Loss Assessment Report From Authorized Marine Surveyor
15) Copy of the Weather Report From the Meteorological Department on the Day of Incident Occurred.
NOTE: The missing report/death certificate/post-mortem report or police report should state that the body of the victim is not traced/found after one year from the date of the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if I don’t have a valid fishing license when the disaster struck?
Some programs might offer a grace period to obtain a license if you were an active fisherman before the calamity.
Q: Can I get relief for damage to my house caused by a natural disaster?
Natural calamity relief programs primarily focus on helping fishermen resume their livelihoods. However, separate government schemes might offer assistance for house repairs.
Q: How long does it take to receive the relief amount?
The processing time can vary depending on the program and the number of applications received. However, most programs aim for a swift turnaround to minimize disruption to fishermen’s lives.
Conclusion
Natural disasters can be devastating for fishermen, but these relief programs offer a lifeline of support during difficult times. By understanding the available programs, eligibility criteria, and application process, fishermen can access the resources they need to rebuild their lives and get back on the water. Remember, timely action is crucial. Reach out to your local fisheries department or fishermen’s association for the latest information and guidance on natural calamity relief programs in your state.
Working together, we can ensure that our fishermen weather the storms and continue to be a vital part of our coastal communities.