In this article, we discuss the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme introduced by the Odisha Government for the year 2025. This scheme aims to enhance the fish farming industry by providing essential support to fishermen and young entrepreneurs in the state. Here you will find comprehensive details about the scheme, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and key benefits.
Overview of the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme
The Odisha Government has launched the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme to promote advanced aquaculture practices in the fisheries sector. The initiative is designed to create job opportunities for unemployed youth, support aspiring entrepreneurs, and boost fish production within the state. In response to economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, this scheme focuses on providing financial and technical support to encourage young job seekers and fishermen to establish profitable fish farming ventures. Under this initiative, approximately 1,080 Biofloc tanks are expected to be established during the year 2024-25.
Advantages of the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme
The implementation of this scheme will lead to:
- Increased fish production through efficient Biofloc Technology, enabling high yields even in small areas.
- Income generation for unemployed individuals and farmers through small-scale Biofloc farming systems.
- Financial assistance provided at a rate of 40% for the general category and 60% for SC/ST and women beneficiaries, dispensed via the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) method.
- Potential for a productivity increase of up to 300 kg per tank in Biofloc Technology systems.
Details of the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme
| Name | Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme |
| Launched by | Odisha Government |
| Beneficiaries | Fishermen, unemployed youth |
| Main Benefit | Support and benefits for fishermen in the state |
| Official Website | http://www.fardodisha.gov.in/ |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this scheme, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Individuals involved in freshwater fish and brackish water shrimp farming, including grow-out tanks, nursery, seed tanks, and hatchery operators, are eligible.
- The scheme prioritizes unemployed educated youth from the state.
- Beneficiaries must complete specialized training in Biofloc Technology prior to starting their unit.
- Assistance will be provided for the installation of Biofloc systems with PVC or tarpaulin tanks, along with necessary water supply, drainage, and aeration units.
- Brackish water shrimp farms and hatchery operators must possess a valid license from the Coastal Aquaculture Authority.
- Assistance is available for a minimum of 2 tanks and a maximum of 6 tanks.
Required Documents
Applicants must provide the following documents when applying:
- Aadhaar Card (for identification)
- Copy of land document
- A consent letter from the bank if a loan is already secured
- Bank account details, including IFS code for DBT (Photocopy)
- Self-declaration statement
Subsidy Details
The following subsidies will be applicable based on the number of tanks:
| Unit Cost | Total Subsidy Amount |
| 2 Tanks (one unit) | ₹1.5 lakh |
| 4 Tanks (one unit) | ₹3 lakh |
| 6 Tanks (one unit) | ₹4 lakh |
Application Procedure for the Biofloc Technology Fish Farming Scheme
To apply for the scheme, follow these steps:
- Visit the official website of the Odisha Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department.
- Click on the “Schemes” tab on the homepage.
- A dropdown menu will appear; select “Fisheries Schemes.”
- You can also access the link provided earlier.
- A new page will open; locate the “Brief Description of the Scheme” section for the “Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture through Introduction of Bio-floc Technology during the year 2024-25”.
- Click “View” to access the complete information.
- A list of schemes will be displayed; click on the option to download the PDF file containing all details about the scheme.
- The application form is included in the PDF.
- Download the form, fill in all necessary information, and attach required documents.
- Submit the completed form to the respective District Fisheries Officers in person or via email.
- Alternately, applications can be sent online to the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha, Cuttack via the following email: director.odifish.inland@gmail.com.