The Department of Fisheries in Karnataka is gearing up to implement the Matsya Vahini scheme across the state, aimed at promoting the sale of hygienic fish and value-added fish products. Under this initiative, the Karnataka Fisheries Development Corporation (KFDC) will provide modified autorickshaws to unemployed youth on a lease basis for selling fish and related products. These vehicles are equipped with facilities to ensure hygienic handling and storage of the products.
Pilot Project Success in Bengaluru
The department had earlier implemented the scheme on a pilot basis in Bengaluru, where 150 beneficiaries were selected, trained, and provided with Matsya Vahini vehicles. The success of this pilot project has encouraged the department to extend the scheme to all districts across Karnataka.
Key Features of the Scheme
Introduced under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Scheme, the Matsya Vahini initiative aims to promote hygienic fish sales from inland fisheries and seafood while generating employment and providing market linkages to beneficiaries. Each modified autorickshaw, costing around Rs 8 lakh, is fitted with amenities such as a gas stove, freezers, and solar lighting. Beneficiaries can sell fresh fish during the day and prepare and sell value-added products, including cooked items and pickles, in the evening to enhance their income.
Lease Terms and Beneficiary Selection
The vehicles, owned by KFDC, will be provided on a five-year lease at a monthly rent of Rs 3,000, along with a refundable deposit of Rs 2 lakh for general category beneficiaries and Rs 1.5 lakh for SC/ST beneficiaries. The department has initiated steps to select one to four beneficiaries in each district, with plans to expand further.
Deputy Director of Fisheries Manjunath stated that the pilot project helped several beneficiaries become entrepreneurs after receiving training and vehicles. The department is now expanding the scheme to all districts, including Mysuru, by selecting four to five beneficiaries.
Community Support
Farmer leader Attahalli Devaraja urged the government to promote the scheme further, emphasizing that it would benefit unemployed youth, encourage hygienic fish sales, and boost livelihood opportunities across the state.
