Fish farming is increasingly becoming a profitable supplementary activity for farmers looking to diversify their income. With proper management, scientific farming practices and access to quality fish seed, farmers can generate an additional source of earnings from available water resources.
For the financial year 2026–27, the Karnataka Fisheries Department is inviting applications from eligible beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Eligible farmers and other beneficiaries can seek financial assistance for activities such as purchasing fish seed/fingerlings and obtaining eligible fisheries-related equipment under the applicable subsidy components.
This initiative is particularly useful for farmers who already have a suitable water source and those who are planning to start fish farming as a new agricultural activity.
What Is the Objective of the Scheme?
The subsidy initiative is intended to support the development of fisheries and improve fish production. Its major objectives include:
- Increasing fish production across different regions.
- Creating additional employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
- Helping farmers develop an additional source of income apart from traditional agriculture.
- Encouraging the adoption of scientific and improved fish farming techniques.
- Supporting people interested in taking up fisheries as an income-generating activity.
By providing assistance for eligible fisheries activities, the scheme aims to encourage more people to participate in organized and productive fish farming.
Which Water Resources Can Be Used?
Depending on the applicable scheme guidelines and local department approval, assistance may be available for fish farming activities carried out in suitable water resources such as:
- Farm ponds
- Water storage ponds
- Privately owned ponds
- Other water bodies approved by the concerned department
Applicants should confirm whether their particular water source and proposed activity meet the current eligibility conditions before submitting an application.
Who Can Apply for Fish Farming Subsidy?
The opportunity may be available to different categories of eligible beneficiaries, subject to the conditions prescribed by the Fisheries Department.
Potential applicants include:
- Farmers from eligible categories.
- Farmers owning or operating private ponds or farm ponds.
- Individuals who are already engaged in fish farming.
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
- Cooperative societies.
- Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
- Other eligible beneficiaries recognized under the relevant fisheries programme.
The final selection and subsidy eligibility will depend on the applicable government rules, available funds and verification by the concerned department.
Documents Required
Applicants should generally keep the following documents ready:
- Aadhaar card.
- Land documents such as RTC/Pahani.
- Documents proving ownership or legal possession of the water resource.
- Active mobile number.
- Caste and income certificate, wherever applicable.
- Bank passbook copy.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Any additional documents requested by the Fisheries Department.
Applicants are advised to verify the exact document requirements with the concerned fisheries office before submitting the application.
How to Apply?
Eligible individuals can approach the Fisheries Department office in their respective taluk or district to enquire about the available subsidy component.
Step 1: Visit the nearest Fisheries Department office and obtain information about the applicable fish seed or fisheries equipment subsidy.
Step 2: Collect the prescribed application form and carefully enter all required information.
Step 3: Attach the necessary supporting documents and submit the completed application to the concerned fisheries officials.
Applicants should ensure that the information provided in the application is accurate and that all required documents are attached.
Where to Get More Information?
For official information regarding fisheries schemes and programmes in Karnataka, applicants should refer to the Karnataka Fisheries Department website
Helpline: 8277200300
Before applying, beneficiaries should confirm the latest eligibility criteria, subsidy amount, application period, approved activities and documentation requirements directly with the Fisheries Department, as scheme conditions may vary according to the applicable component and government guidelines.
