Two-month fishing ban from April 15; ₹20,000 relief for eligible families
The State government on Monday announced a ban on marine fishing by mechanised and motorised boats in territorial waters along the East Coast from April 15 to June 14.
The annual measure, enforced during the peak breeding season, is aimed at conserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks. Officials said it also reduces risks to fishermen amid changing sea conditions. Traditional non-motorised boats have been exempted from the ban. Violations will attract penalties under the Andhra Pradesh Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1995.
To offset the loss of livelihood during the period, the government will provide ₹20,000 per family under the Matsyakara Bharosa scheme. The assistance is intended to support fishing households until regular operations resume.
According to the guidelines, boats must be registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, by April 14, 2026, and owners must possess a valid fishing licence to qualify for the scheme. The number of eligible crew members has been capped at 10 for mechanised boats above 18 metres, eight for those below 18 metres, six for motorised boats, and three for traditional boats.
Mechanised boat owners, however, are not eligible for financial assistance. Boats that violated last year’s ban will also be disqualified, officials said, adding that monitoring will be stepped up during the restriction period.
Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years of age as of March 31, 2026. They are required to submit boat registration details, fishing licences, Aadhaar cards of crew members, and active bank account details at village or ward secretariats.
A district-wide enumeration of boats and crew will be conducted at designated landing centres on April 17. Following verification and completion of eKYC, the assistance will be credited directly to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries through direct benefit transfer. Officials said awareness drives are being carried out in coastal villages to ensure compliance and smooth implementation of the ban.