The Department of Fisheries, Goa on September 2nd 2024 issued the Eco-Friendly Movable Fish Kiosk Matsya Vahini – Three-Wheeler Scheme. This initiative not only promotes sustainable practices but also supports the livelihoods of fishermen.
Introduction to Matsya Vahini
The Matsya Vahini project represents a groundbreaking approach to fish vending. It features electric, eco-friendly kiosks designed to ensure hygienic and efficient fish handling. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, these kiosks aim to improve the overall fish distribution network while emphasizing world-class branding. The innovative components included in each kiosk:
- Solar Panels (300 watt): Harness solar energy to charge batteries, powering the kiosk’s lighting and refrigerated compartments.
- Announcement Speakers: Facilitate public announcements and promotions within permissible decibel levels to attract customers.
- Refrigerated Compartments: Maintain optimal temperatures—0 to 4°C for fresh fish and -18°C for frozen products—ensuring freshness and quality.
- GPS Tracking: Enable real-time tracking of the vehicle’s location for better logistics management.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Provide a sustainable power source, coupled with an electric motor for eco-friendly operation.
- Display Case: Showcase the fish in an appealing manner to attract customers.
Objectives of the Scheme
The Matsya Vahini initiative aims to achieve several key objectives:
- Hygienic Fish Handling: Ensure that fish is handled in a clean and sanitary environment.
- Socio-Economic Improvement: Enhance the living standards of fishermen and their families.
- Employment Generation: Create job opportunities within the fisheries sector.
- Food Security: Make fresh fish available at reasonable prices in remote areas.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme opens its doors to a variety of eligible candidates:
- Individuals who have completed a 6-month Fisheries Training Course.
- Former Sagar Mitra employees.
- Entrepreneurs with qualifications in Fisheries.
- Fish farmers or fishermen.
This diverse eligibility criterion ensures that those most affected by fishing activities can benefit from the program.
Terms and Conditions for Applicants
To ensure a smooth rollout of the Matsya Vahini scheme, several terms and conditions have been established:
Application Process
- Submission of Application: Interested candidates must submit a duly filled application form to the Department.
- Preference Criteria: Preference will be given to individuals who meet specific qualifications.
- Financial History: Applicants should not have availed any financial assistance from the Department in the last five years.
- One Vehicle Per Applicant: Each individual can only apply for one kiosk.
Vehicle Allocation and Security
- The Department will procure the Matsya Vahini and register it in its name, but the vehicle will be handed over to the selected applicant.
- A security deposit of ₹1,00,000 is required to ensure compliance with the scheme’s terms.
Responsibilities of Licensees
Licensees must adhere to several operational guidelines:
- Sales Pricing: Fish must be sold at a maximum of 10% above the wholesale price.
- Daily Rate Display: Licensees must display fish rates publicly and report sales data to the Department.
- Hygiene Maintenance: The vehicle must be kept clean and in good condition.
- Regular Inspections: Government officials may conduct inspections at any time.
- Insurance and Compliance: Licensees are responsible for renewing vehicle insurance, fitness certificates, and other necessary documentation.
- Minimum Operation Period: Licensees must operate the vehicle for at least one year to avoid forfeiting the security deposit.
Relaxation of Provisions
The government reserves the right to relax any clauses of the scheme if deemed necessary, allowing for flexibility in exceptional circumstances.
The Matsya Vahini initiative is more than just a scheme; it’s a holistic approach to empowering fishermen, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable practices in fish vending. By adopting eco-friendly technology, this initiative paves the way for a brighter future for the fishing community.
