Fish farmers can now get a one-time incentive on aquaculture insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana. The scheme offers 40 per cent of the insurance premium as support.

The incentive is capped at Rs 25,000 per hectare and Rs 1 lakh per farmer, covering up to four hectares. Farmers from scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and women will get an extra 10 per cent.

The move aims to push more fish farmers to insure their stock against disease, floods and other risks. Aquaculture losses can wipe out a season’s income, and insurance remains low in the sector.

Officials say the support will reduce the cost burden on small farmers. Insurance firms are expected to see higher enrolment once the incentive kicks in.

Farmers can approach the scheme through the usual application channels. The government has been promoting allied farm activities as a second income source for rural households.