STRENGTHENING THE BACKBONE OF COASTAL GOA

Government Schemes Supporting Fishermen

- By Gauri Ghadge

In Goa, fishing is more than an occupation. It's a lifeline, a legacy, and for many, the only source of livelihood. From pre-dawn launches to the unpredictability of the sea, every trip offshore is a calculated risk. Recognising the immense contributions and hardships of this community, the Government of Goa has introduced a series of well-crafted welfare schemes to support traditional fishermen financially, structurally, and most importantly, with dignity.

In this In-Focus feature, we examine four key schemes that are transforming the lives of Goa's fisherfolk, offering relief, safety, empowerment, and long-term resilience.

1. NATURAL CALAMITY RELIEF: A SAFETY NET IN TIMES OF CRISIS

The sea gives, but it also takes. Goa's fishermen are often at the mercy of cyclones, floods, fires, and unexpected oceanic accidents. To reduce the impact of such tragedies, the state's Natural Calamity Relief Scheme ensures compensation across a wide range of losses.

In the heartbreaking event of death or total disability while fishing in the sea or river, the government offers a compensation of 5,00,000. For damaged or destroyed equipment, the compensation structure is tailored and fair:

• Fishing Canoes: Up to 1,00,000 for partial damage; 2,00,000 for total loss with OBM.

• Fishing Vessels: 7,00,000 for 1-4 cylinder vessels; 10,00,000 for 6-8 cylinders.

• Fishing Nets: Gill nets (50,000), trawl nets (50,000), rampon nets (1,00,000), and purse seine nets (5,00,000) - based on the actual loss value.