Key Facts
In a significant move to boost the fisheries sector, the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department has announced a subsidy scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) fishermen and entrepreneurs in Mandi district. Under the Pradhanmantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, beneficiaries can receive up to ₹24 lakh in subsidy for setting up a modern ice plant with a capacity of 10 tonnes per day.
Details of the Scheme
The total project cost for the ice plant is estimated at ₹40 lakh. The government will provide a 60% subsidy, capped at ₹24 lakh. The remaining 40% must be borne by the beneficiary. The cost breakdown includes approximately ₹20.5 lakh for building construction and ₹19.5 lakh for modern machinery and equipment.
The ice plant will be established in a building measuring 10.44 meters by 7.39 meters. It will be equipped with a brine tank, 50 stainless steel ice cans, a cooling unit, and an ice crushing machine, among other modern facilities. This infrastructure will enhance the preservation, storage, and transportation of fish products.
Impact on Fisheries Sector
This initiative is expected to significantly improve the fisheries infrastructure in Mandi district. By providing access to ice plants, fishermen can better preserve their catch, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve the quality of fish products. This will not only increase their income but also contribute to the overall growth of the fisheries sector in Himachal Pradesh.
What Readers Should Know
Interested applicants must own land or have a registered lease of at least 10 years to be eligible. The scheme is specifically for SC category individuals. The Assistant Director of Fisheries, Mandi, Neetu Singh, has urged eligible fishermen and entrepreneurs to take full advantage of this opportunity. She emphasized that the scheme will help develop modern fisheries infrastructure in the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible for the ice plant subsidy in Mandi? Scheduled Caste (SC) category fishermen and entrepreneurs in Mandi district are eligible.
- What is the maximum subsidy amount for the ice plant? The maximum subsidy is ₹24 lakh, which is 60% of the total project cost of ₹40 lakh.
- What is the capacity of the ice plant? The ice plant will have a capacity of 10 tonnes per day.
- What are the land requirements for the scheme? Applicants must own land or have a registered lease of at least 10 years.