The state has announced a new scheme called financial assistance to purchase single net/small ramponn (net) and its accessories in the official gazette. The scheme has been introduced with the prime objective of helping fishermen with economic strains to sustain their livelihood and also encourage traditional fishing. Fishermen from the OBC community can avail of the benefit under this scheme. They will be granted subsidy to the extent of 50% of the actual cost of the nets and its accessories limited to 50,000. For eligibility, the fishermen should belong to the OBC ( Kharvi) community with a valid caste certificate issued by a competent authority; a resident of Goa with valid 15 years resident certificate issued by the mamlatdar; the grandfather/grandmother of fishermen should be born in Goa and be residents of the state; fishermen or any family member of his household should not possess a fishing canoe or fishing trawler; fishermen can avail the benefit of the scheme every five years; only one member of a family can benefit under this scheme. The original VAT bill from an authorized dealer towards the purchase of single nets/small ramponn and its accessories should be produced to claim the subsidy. The subsidy amount shall be disbursed in favour of the applicant in his/her account through ECS mode of payment. The single net/small ramponn and its accessories purchased through the scheme will be duly registered with the directorate of fisheries under the Goa, Daman and Diu Marine Regulation Act, 1980. The beneficiary cannot sell, mortgage or transfer the fishing equipment for five years from the date of purchase. Financial assistance in the form of the subsidy will be granted to fishermen by nationalized banks/financial institutions or through self-finance, subject to the availability of funds during the respective year.
2016, Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.