Samudra Sathi Scheme 2024: Detailed Support for Fishermen in West Bengal

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Samudra Sathi Scheme

The West Bengal government has started a number of welfare programs with the aim of boosting the standard of life for its citizens. The Samudra Sathi Scheme 2024 is one of the most current initiatives, with a specific focus on the fishermen of the state. The program, which was announced together with the 2024 West Bengal Budget, aims to offer significant financial assistance to fishermen during the annual fishing ban period, thus assuring that their livelihoods are not harmed by the temporary loss of income.

Overview of the Samudra Sathi Scheme 2024

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Key Details

FeatureDescription
Scheme NameSamudra Sathi Scheme 2024
Announced ByFinance Minister Smt. Chandrima Bhattacharya
Organized ByGovernment of West Bengal
Fund Allocated₹200 Crore
Total Amount Per Fisherman₹10,000
Amount Per Month₹5000
Beneficiary CountNearly 2 Lakh
Official Websitewbfisheries.wb.gov.in

Objectives and Benefits

The primary objective of the Samudra Sathi Scheme is to offer financial support to fishermen during the two-month fishing prohibition, which usually takes place to facilitate the restocking of fish populations. This prohibition, which is essential for ecological equilibrium, presents substantial financial challenges for fishermen who depend on daily catches for their livelihood. The scheme provides each registered fisherman with ₹5000 per month during the two-month moratorium period, resulting in a total of ₹10,000. The objective of this financial assistance is to:

  • Alleviate Financial Stress: Ensuring fishermen can meet their daily needs without compromising their quality of life.
  • Ensure Food Security: Helping fishermen afford food and other essentials despite the loss of their primary income.
  • Promote Sustainable Fishing Practices: Encouraging adherence to the ban without causing economic distress.

Eligibility Criteria

For fishermen to benefit from the Samudra Sathi Scheme, they must meet certain eligibility criteria:

CriterionDescription
ResidencyMust be a permanent resident of West Bengal
ProfessionMust be a registered fisherman
Geographic EligibilityOnly fishermen from East Midnapore, North 24-Parganas, and South 24-Parganas are eligible

Application Process

Eligible fishermen can apply for the Samudra Sathi Scheme by following these steps:

  1. Visit the Official Website: Go to wbfisheries.wb.gov.in.
  2. Locate the Application Form: On the homepage, click on the “Apply Here” option.
  3. Complete the Application: Fill in the required details such as Name, Address, Date of Birth, and other relevant information.
  4. Upload Required Documents: Submit necessary documents (detailed below).
  5. Review and Submit: Check the application for errors and submit it if everything is correct.
  6. Save Confirmation: Take a screenshot of the submission page for future reference.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents during the application process:

DocumentDescription
Aadhar CardA valid identity proof
Passport Size PhotoA recent photograph for identification
Bank Account DetailsTo facilitate direct bank transfers
Mobile NumberFor communication purposes
Fishermen Registration ProofProof of being a registered fisherman
Domicile/Residential CertificateProof of permanent residency in West Bengal

Implementation and Impact

The scheme is expected to have a significant positive impact on the fishermen community in West Bengal. By providing direct financial support, it helps in:

  • Ensuring Stability: Financial aid during the ban period ensures that fishermen’s households can maintain their standard of living.
  • Encouraging Compliance: Financial support encourages fishermen to comply with the fishing ban, contributing to sustainable fishing practices.
  • Boosting Local Economy: The scheme injects money into local economies, as fishermen spend on essentials, helping small businesses.

Important Notes

  • Financial Support: Beneficiaries will receive ₹5000 per month via direct bank transfer for two months.
  • Benefit Limitation: Only registered fishermen from specified districts are eligible.
  • Transparency and Efficiency: Direct bank transfers ensure transparency and timely delivery of benefits.

Summary

The Government of West Bengal’s Samudra Sathi Scheme 2024 is an excellent program that aims to offer the fishing community the assistance it needs during the fishing moratorium period. The scheme guarantees that fishermen and their families can maintain their livelihoods without suffering economic hardship by providing financial support. The project not only supports the livelihoods of fishermen but also supports sustainable fishing practices for the long-term advantage of the environment.

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Samudra Sathi Scheme 2024: Detailed Support for Fishermen in West Bengal

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