Patna: The Bihar government has invited applications for the 2024–25 cycle of its Relief-cum-Savings Scheme, offering financial support to full-time, below-poverty-line (BPL) fisherfolk during the annual fishing ban from June to August. The initiative, managed by the state’s Directorate of Fisheries, is aimed at conserving aquatic biodiversity and boosting fish productivity across rivers by restricting fishing during the breeding season.
Online applications for the scheme are open until May 31, 2025, through the official website fisheries.bihar.gov.in.
Under the scheme, each eligible fisher is required to contribute Rs 1,500 annually, while the state and central governments will each contribute an additional Rs 1,500 — amounting to a total annual assistance of Rs 4,500 per beneficiary. The support is designed not only to offset income loss during the no-fishing months but also to offer a safety net during natural disasters such as floods.
To qualify, applicants must be between 18 and 60 years of age, hold BPL certification, and be full-time river-based fisherfolk. They must also possess a valid, free fishing permit issued by the District Fisheries Officer and be a member of a registered cooperative or welfare organisation.
Officials said the scheme plays a dual role — protecting fish stocks during their critical reproductive cycle and providing a stable livelihood buffer for communities that rely entirely on fishing. Authorities have urged eligible fishers to apply promptly, noting that detailed guidelines are available in government notification 6SS(6)20/2022-2740 dated August 11, 2022, or through the toll-free helpline 18003456185.
