Centre approves Rs. 214.54 lakhs for Fishermen's Welfare

Centre approves Rs. 214.54 lakhs for Fishermen's Welfare
(26-June-2009)
Government of India has approved a relief of Rs.214.54 lakhs to the State Government of Kerala as Saving-cum-Relief scheme for fishermen's welfare. This will benefit nearly 1.5 lakh fishermen in the State of Kerala.
Government of India has also enhanced the assistance under the scheme from Rs.1200/- to Rs.1800/- per fisherman from this financial year.
Under this scheme, relief is given to fishermen for 3 months of fishing ban period while savings are collected from them over 9 months of fishing period. Fishermen's contribution of Rs.600/- is matched (Rs.600/- each) equally by the Centre and the State. Thus the total contribution of Rs.1800 is distributed to the fishermen in 3 equal monthly installments of Rs.600/- each. The interest accrued on the savings of the fishermen is also distributed to them with the 3rd and last installment of relief.
For purpose of this component, an eligible fisherman means a person who is professionally engaged in full time fishing is a member of Co-operative Society / Federation / Welfare Society, lives below poverty line and is below 60 years of age.