How to enroll in the Fishermen Insurance Scheme in India
What's the story
In India, fishermen bravely navigate a livelihood teeming with uncertainties and dangers.
Acknowledging this, the government has implemented insurance schemes tailored exclusively for them.
These schemes serve as a safety net, offering financial assurance in the event of accidents or death during fishing.
Registration may appear intimidating, but a clear understanding of the process can greatly simplify the task.
Step 1
Understanding eligibility criteria
Before applying for any fishermen insurance scheme, it's important to check the eligibility criteria.
Who are eligible? In general, active fishermen and fisherwomen, aged between 18 and 59 years, registered with the Fisheries Department, are eligible to apply.
Some schemes may have specific criteria related to annual income or type of fishing activities (inland or marine).
Verifying these details will help avoid any issues during the application process.
Step 2
Gathering required documents
The next step is to prepare all the required documents for submission along with your application.
These usually include identity proof like Aadhaar Card or Voter ID, address proof, a registration certificate from the Fisheries Department, and recent passport-sized photographs.
In some cases, income certificates or BPL cards may be needed to demonstrate eligibility for subsidized premiums.
Having these documents ready will make the application process quicker and easier.
Step 3
Choosing the right scheme
India has multiple insurance schemes for fishermen with different benefits and premiums.
The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) offers accident insurance for a minimal ₹12/year.
Separately, the Group Accident Insurance Scheme for Active Fishermen provides up to ₹5 lakh compensation for accidental death/permanent disability.
Choosing the best one requires exploring these options to identify the most suitable for your needs.
Step 4
Application submission process
After you have selected a scheme and readied your documents, you can apply through local fisheries offices or selected banks.
Complete the application form with correct information and attach all necessary documents as specified by the scheme.
To recap, the process involves checking eligibility, preparing documents, choosing a scheme, and submitting an application with attachments for financial security at sea.