West Bengal Fisheries Policy, 2015

WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICV 2015 Government of West Bengal Department of Fisheries Benfish IT Tower (7th & 8th Floor) GN-31, Sector-V, Saltlake, Kolkata-700 091 INDEX 51. Content Page No. No. 1 Preamble 1 2 Availability of Resources 2 3 Land and Water bodies under the control of Fisheries Department 2 4 Vision & Mission 3 5 Objectives ofthe Fisheries Policy 4 6 Legal status 5 7 Range 5 8 Part-I: Fisheries Policy in General 6 9 Inland fisheries 6 10 Realistic resource assessment 6 11 Capture fisheries 6 12 Culture-cum-capture fisheries in lakes/reservoirs/beels-baors 6 13 Culture fisheries in tanks and ponds 8 14 HatcheryAccreditation, Fish Seed Production and Certification 9 15 Sustainable Brackish WaterAquaculture (coastal aquaculture) 10 16 Hilsa Fisheries 11 17 Marine fisheries 12 18 Co-management and Community involvement in fisheries management 1"3 19 Reducing and Controlling Fishing Capacity 14 20 Deep Sea Fishing 15 21 Mariculture as an alternative to Fishing 15 22 Post-harvest Infrastructure support & marketing 15 23 Fish Quality and related infrastructure 15 24 Fishery Harbours and fish landing centres 16 25 Fish marketing and trade 17 26 Safety of fishermen at Sea and welfare of fishermen 17 27 Livelihoods 18 28 Environment and fisheries 19 29 Encouragement for growing small indigenous fish species 19 30 Ornamental Fishery 20 31 Adaptation to Climate Change 20 32 Fish Tourism & Solar Power 20 33 Information, Education and Capacity building (IEC) and awareness 21 34 Entrepreneurship development & Self Employment 22 35 PPP & Joint Venture in fisheries 23 36 Special assistance for SC/ST peoples in fisheries 23 37 Fiscal Incentives 23 38 Support for implementing the policy 24 INDEX 51. Content Page No. No. 39 Planning and Governance 24 £10 Building capacity 25 41 Fishery Co-operatives / FPGs! SHGs 25 42 Equity and Gender budget 25 ,<1:3 ReseardranctTeehnology service 25 44 Advisory support services 6 45 Global change 26 46 InstitutionalArrangements 26 47 Organisational aspects 26 48 Legal framework 27 49 Fisheries Reform 27 50 Funding 28 51 Monitoring and evaluation 28 52 Policy Review 28 53 Concluding remarks 28 54 Part-II: Fisheries Industry / Investment Policy in particular 29 55 Investment in fisheries 29 56 Land Policy 29 fJ7 Methodology for Expression of Interest: 30 58 Models of Investment on LandlWater Resources of Fisheries Department 30 59 Investment in Private Land 30 60 Fiscal incentive and Concessions for Fishery Industry 30 60 Conditions! Eligibility for availingAssistance 36 61 Classification ofAreas: List Zones 36 62 Commencement and Duration 37 63 Matrix on West Bengal Fisheries Policy 2015 38 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Preamble: Fisheries Importance for West Bengal & Citizens West Bengal has a long history of pisciculture since pre-historic days. Huge areas of water bodies have long been used as rich resources for fish production and continuous supply of animal protein for human consumption of this state. Although, West Bengal has been in the top position in Inland Fish Production but the demand to supply to a population of of 9.14 crore was never met. West Bengal has presently (2013-14) a demand of 16.291akh ton offish but production is lower at 14.90 lakh ton. But the state's water resources are plenty and can produce 31.097 lakh ton per year provided pisiculture activities are extended in newer waters and potential of big water bodies are fully harnessed through more professional management and scientific culture. Indeed, due to assured market, fish farming has always been a profitable venture return handsome profit in a short cycle of 6-9 months. However, the fisheries sector urgently needs to be modernised; better management and scientific culture with use of modern technology has to be spread across the state. Here, it should be emphasized that hitherto near-absence of investment from the private sector has to be attracted and awareness if needed that the fisheries is a profitable commercial venture too. Private sector has immense scope for investment in the fisheries in West Bengal. Andhra Pradesh is a role model where the credit for its success in production solely goes to the private sector. In the two districts of West and East Godavari, it is the private sector which has turned large tracts of land into lucrative fish culture. Today, Andhra is the supplier offish to not only West Bengal but also to other states. However, more than Andhra, it is West Bengal which has richer resources and better future for fish production. Private investment couple with scientific culture, especially in large water bodies of the size 20 acre and more can not only meet the increasing domestic demand but also meet the demands of North Eastern States, neighbouring countries, including international market. The Fisheries Policy in the form of this book is an attempt by the Fisheries Department to present a clearer picture of where we stand today in terms of fisheries sector and what are important areas that will boost production if proper policies are identified and implemented. 1 Deplt. of Fishery, Gov!. of W.B. Availability of Resources INLAND FISHERY RESOURCE IN WEST BENGAL o Ponds I Tanks III Beel & Boar 0 Reservoir 0 a) River • b) Canal 0 Sewage fed fishery. Brackish water fishery Freshwater: Pond-2.88 L ha Beel & Baor-0.42 L ha Reservoir-0.27 L ha River-1.72 L ha Canal-O.80 L ha Sewage Fed-O.04 Lha Other-0.42 L ha Brackishwater: Brackishwater-2.1 Lha Marine: Coast Line-158 km Resource Wise Production Potentiality Water area Present Estimated 51. Type of available Area under production Demand No. Resource ( hal culture {hal (13-14) (LMT) (14-15) 1 Fresh Water 6.55 L ha 1.48 12.38 L MT 16.74 2 Brackish Water 2.10Lha 0.58 1.54 L MT (beside fish meal and 3 Marine Water 158 Km Only upto 50-75 km 1.88 L MT export-2MT (73801 Km 2 ) from shore line out of permissible 360 km Total 8.65 2.06 15.80 L MT 16.74 Resource wise Production Potentiality A. Land and Water bodies under the control of Fisheries Department: i. Fish Farms under Directorate of Fisheries: 702.5 acre. ii. Under State Fisheries Development Corporation a. Own Culture: 2177.5 acre b. On Lease: 415 acre 2 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY iii. Under West Bengal Fisheries Corporation: 202.5 acre iv. Under PFCS: 906 nos (>20 acres). V. Fisheries Department leased to PFCS etc: 3698.59 ha. B. Fishermen's village: Inland village-6348 nos. Marine villages-1237 nos. C. Fishermen Population: Inland-26, 13,163 nos., Marine-3, 80,138 nos. D. Educational Institutions for Pisciculture and Animal Husbandry: one state university, 7 colleges, one Central Institute of Fisheries Education, yearly 60 students get PG degree or PG diploma and 200 students get fisheries related degree at graduation level. As a result educated skilled manpower in fisheries sector is available in West Bengal. E. The state has a resourceful 158 km long costal line and about 47400 sq.kms. of area for deep sea fishing. VISION Manage, protect, enhance and develop fisheries and aquaculture in the State and generate employment and improve livelihood, nutritional, socio-economic status, safety and welfare ofthe fishers through viable and sustainable eco-friendly strategies and programmes with the ultimate objective of "Sabar Jonyo Maach 0 Sab Jalasaye Chash" MISSION • Promote sustainable development of capture and culture fisheries in inland (fresh water, brackish water and marine sector) and sea food industry to enhance the contribution ofthe fisheries sector to food and livelihood security. • Use of modern technological tools such as Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System for fisheries resource assessment! mapping and judicious harnessing of these resources. • Encourage competitive spirit in the management of water bodies and fish production by different stakeholders. • Promote private investment and public-private-partnership in developing, managing, conserving and sharing the fishery resources for the benefit of the society. • Reform the fisheries co-operative societies and strengthen their resources for ultimate go81 ofenhanced fish production. • Create a human resource base for fisheries development and managemerit:'~ research, extension and awareness, through capacity building. • Improve the quality of life and living standards of fisher persons by a combination of general purpose mainstream interventions and beneficiary focused schemes. • Reduce post-harvest losses and improve the landing &berthing infrastructure for marine fishermen. 3 • • • WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Improving fisheries coherence and governance and re-defining resource access for fishers. Quality seed production in inland sector. Maintain ecological balance, conserve biodiversity, ensure public health provide recreational facilities. Legaf status • All the government and autonomous organizations, co-operative societies, international institutions, various non- governmental organizations, voluntary organizations, and persons who are working within the geographical territory of West Bengal for the development of fisheries resources, harvesting and preservation, export-import or other businesses, related to the fisheries sector will be included in the State Fisheries Policy. • All the water bodies suitable for fisheries production and their fisheries resources and conservation, development and management will be underthis policy. Range In order to provide a strong base of the development process of fisheries resources in an integrated way the comprehensive policy wHiinclude the policy for the following aspects: Part-I: Fisheries Policy, 2015 in General Part-II: Fisheries Industry I Investment Policy, 2015 in particular 5 Deptt. of Fishery, Govt. of W.B, Part - I : Fisheries Policy in General 1 Inland fisheries 1.1 Realistic resource assessment e A detailed resource survey using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) will be undertaken for reliable assessment of inland fisheries resources in the context of land use and land cover change that have taken place during the past decade, for-promoting cqpture and culture fisheries in the inland water bodies. 1.2 Capture fisheries • Appropriate measures for.developing, propagating, conserving and protecting riverine fisheries in general and threatened fish species in particular will be'taken up. Towards this: . •.. Fishing in the open flowing waters will be regulated through grant at lieeFlses,aod the fee payable and the conditions thereof be rationalised and the. fisltlimw, effow restricted. . • Use of destructive types of fishing gear such as zero meshed nets' shall be prohibited. • Obstruction of naturally flowing waters by flXedlstake nets." wl'li'En' is' detr:imemtall for migration and natural propagatioDoffiStt"winbepmhibited~ • The fish breeding gmunds in rivers shalf be declared' as sanctuariestproteefedl areas, closed season for fishing for a specmed p:elifod~ • Steps as appropriate for improvement of river fish genetic resources sl!lalJ1 be' initiated, which will include river stocking (ranching) with the seeds produced out of the brooder of those rivers to maintain gene pool and supported by R&D efforts by the National Institute of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR). • Restoration ofthe degraded river systems ofthe State. • Introduction of fishing ban in reservoirs IBeel-Baors etcwherever required. With a view to ensuring the fishers earn sustainable livelihood, itwill be the endeavour of the State to promote co-management of the resources by effective involvement of the local community in a cohesive manner. 1.3 Culture-cum-capture fisheries in lakes/reservoirs/beels-baors: All the open water bodies, irrigation canals I khals I tanks and reservoirs will be brought under the fold of culture based capture fisheries. Rice-fish culture and cage culture will be promoted wherever it is feasible, in the flood plains and drainable ponds. 6 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Beel Fisheries / Reservoir fisheries and all kinds of Govt water bodies management and development will be in line with the provisions contained in the West Bengal L &L R Manual and guide lines issued by the Directorate of Fisheries from time to time. Preference shall be given to register Primary Fishermen Cooperative Societies {PFCS) or authorised Self Help Groups (SHGs) for leasing of the fishing rights of all lakesf>reserwoirs/beels-baors. Leasing of reservoirs to private entrepreneurs/ individuals" pCJblic sector undertakings/registered companies. in the event of any PFCS or SHGs not coming forward to take on lease any reservoir, shall be through public auction in the following manner: ' (i) The tanks and other interests transferred to the Panchayats covering an area upto 20 Acres shall be lease.d out to the functional Fishermen's Co operative Societtes ,or Fish Production Groups or Self-Help Groups in the manner as laid down in Rule 272. (ii) If, however, the highest tencler falls short of the reserve price, fresh tender shall be invited, in which the individuals or entrepreneurs or Govt. Undertakings of Fisheries Deptt may also participate. (iii) The period of settlement except in the case of settlement of part-vested water areas to a private co-sharer should be for a period not exceeding (i) 5 (five) years for water bodies covering an area upto 20 Acres and (ii) 7 (seven) years for water bodies covering an area above 20 Acres." Regular stock enhancement programmes shall be taken up in selected Beels-baor T Reservoir for sustaining the Beels-baor / Reservoir fish productivity and production. To accomplish this, steps shall be taken to create basic infrastructure facilities in the Beels-baor / Reservoir sites such as captive hatcheries, nurseries, fry/advance fingerling raising centres, fish landing and handling sheds ice plants, etc. Taking into consideration the productivity pattern and management aspects of reservoirs in relation to water spread area, different management and operational strategies shall be adopted for management of fisheries in Beels-baor / Reservoirs. Towards facilitating fish farming in the Govt water bodies, possessed by other departments, Fisheries Deptt shall extend all kinds of technical cooperation in their fish farming activities beside recommending name of the Fisheries Technical Officer (from the panel of retired fisheries officers) for engagement by them on contractual terms for looking into the fish farming activities. These measures shall encompass strategies for post-impoundment (in the case of new reservoirs), conservation measures such as declaration ofsanctuaries/protected areas, closed season for fishing, preventing/banning the use of destructive types of fishing methods and gear, mesh size regulation;'and their strict enforcement. Since some of the Beels-baor / Reservoir in the State are long-seasonal, with the water remaining only for six-seven months, a comprehensive welfare programme shall be introduced forthe fishermen dependent on the fishery resources ofthese reservoirs for their livelihood. 7 Depll. of Fishery, Govt. of w.B. 1.4 Culture fisheries in tanks and ponds Aquaculture shall be developed in a sustainable manner to generate food and employment Gob), and income and livelihoods of a cross section of the rural and urban populations. Uniform leasing of all water bodies under control of Gram Panchayat (GP) and/or any other Government department for a minimum duration of 7 years shall be implemented. A proper process for leasing all the inland water bodies for piScfculture will be evolved and the lease value shall be determined by the Fisheries Department, as per the guide line issued by the Directorate of Fisheries. Preference shall be given for long-term lease of all kinds of Govt water bodies so as to ensure free flow of bank credit for making them suitable for fish culture and to build confidence among the fi~h farming community. Surplus waste lands will be given on long-term lease to the poorer sections of the society for fish farming with the requisite support for developing such areas into fish farms. Aquaculture production will be promoted through vertical and horizontal expansion of culture fisheries activity by following scientific and eco-friendly methods, through which additional pond/tank areas will be brought under aquaculture with a productivity of 4 to 6 tonnes per ha. Use of improved and formulated quality .feed in the culture activities will be promoted. While commercial aquaculture will be promoted in the private sector, small-scale aquaculture in tanks and ponds will be promoted for the benefit of small and marginal farmers. Special attention shall be paid to small-scale aquaculturists by helpin..9 them in improvin.g their aquaculture practices through the provision of extension services and capacity building for entrepreneurship development through training, by mor~ vibrant Fish Farmers Development Agencies (FFDAS will be restructured and strengthened further in the line of 12 th Five Year Planning Commission, GOI). Adedicated authority will be set up for undertaking intensive fish farming (above 10 MT /ha /yr) in selected 50 nos Govt water bodies (above 20 acres size) across the State, with special emphasis towards big size fish production of the species preferably Rohu, Catla, Chital etc. For improving and stabilising farm productivity and income of the rural poor, rice-fish diversified farming and fish culture in watershed ponds or water harvesting structures, and backyard/household 110nds, will be promoted. In water deficient areas, where traditional aquaculture in ponds is not possible and where there is a scarcity of suitable land for pond construction, re-circulating aquaculture production systems may offer an alternative. Towards this, closed re-circulating aquaculture systems with bio-filters will be introduced in West Bengal, with necessary R&D back up from the concerned National Fisheries Research Institutes. No water bodies will be allowed to remain fallow and / or utilised for any other purposes other than fish farming in terms of the provision of W B I FAct (Sec-B). Conflict of multi ownership issues, causing fishery ponds / water bodies remain fallow will be addressed suitably by formulating an all encompassing holistic water management policy defining roles ofeach stake holders. 8 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Cluster approach will be encouraged which will improve the technical design of the farms, common infrastructure provisions, effective control on pollution hazards, easy and single window clearance (by necessary restructuring of the FFDAs) for issue of licenses and registration. Large cluster based pisciculture projects including those in water logged areas will be given preference and state will make all efforts to provide necessary infrastructure like roads, power connectivity, water supply, drainage and other amenities. Commercial aquaculture will be promoted for attracting entrepreneurs in fishery sector in the State by diversification of species from the present dependence on IMC. Simultaneously efforts will be made for seed production of air breathing fishes like Clarias, Channa, Heteropneustes and medium carps. Potential exotic species of fish may be considered for culture in ponds and tanks to supplement the presently employed species. The production of on-farm cost effective quality fish diets will be promoted. Demonstration projects (centers) will be taken up to popularise the latest and advanced fish culture technologies among the aquaculturists. Ado.pl.tion of good Aquaculture practices in general and sustained efforts in improving ~ooolto better marotagement practices are recommended for increasing production, productivity, amtJl wetl1fnS as \wetl as for ensuring sustainability at the production level and environr.nentaillew.el Aqua-clinics/Aqura-.SROpsI/A'Qfwa-business Oentres (On&Stop AqU8·S00p-OAStS) wHL be set up at sele:ote:cl 'Locations :in ~h:e State, which wil~ act as the essential areas of intervention for sl1ppmrfing the promotion ofaquaculture and employment generation. 1.5 Hatche.ryAocreditation, Fish Seed Production and Certification The existing fish seed hatcheries in the Government and public sector will be converted into multi-species fish seed hatcheries (including freshwater prawn) with special emphasis towards standardization of breeding and seed production of local indigenous fish species as well as new candidate fish species (like GIFT / Mono Sex Tilapia) as a measure of diversification of aquaculture covering a wide range of freshwater fish species. A need based assessment on the fish/scampi seed requirement will be made and wherever needed for establishment of fish/scampi hatcheries both in the Government and private sectorwill be encouraged. While doing so, Cluster Approach (CA) for usll seed productioR and. supply will.. be supported by allocating specific areas for fingerlings production with proper road connectivity and electricity, where the private sector, fisheries cooperatives and SHGs could work jointly. This will ensure livelihood and income generation opportunities to the members ofthe fisheries cooperatives and SHGs. Establishment and operation of commercial scampi hatcheries need substantial investment, and hence public-private partnerships will be encouraged. 9 Deptt. of Fishery, Govt. of Ws. Hatchery Accreditation, Fish seed certification norms and fish seed hatchery registration based on the Govt. of India's issued during 2010, shall be formulated and implemented for checking the quality of fish seed produced within the State and those imported from other States and will be guided by the notification issued by the Fisheries Department. Fish seed producers/hatchery owners and One-stop Aqua Shops in the state will be duly registered for ensuring free movement of disease free and qual·ity fish/scampi brood stock, their seed and other inputs and implements within and/or from out side the state. Brood banks will be established in the government farms to produce improved quality brood fish. Stringent measures to regulate inter State seed movement, and also from across the border will be in place. Encouragement will be given to the lessee to satisfy his or her own seed requirement by developing adjacent area / part of Beel-Baor-reservoirfor seed rearing. Government shall facilitate development of seed banks in 'private sector / public private partnership mode for ensuring round the year availability of quality seed at local level. Emphasis will be made so that quality and certified seed larger size fingerling only to be stocked. 2 Sustainable Brackish WaterAquaculture (coastal aquaculture) By suitably restructuring the land lease policies, the government owned brackish water areas suitable for coastal aquaculture will be allotted to fisheries cooperatives, self help groups, unemployed youth and private entrepreneurs, for a minimum period of 7 years, for promoting Sustainable Aquaculture systems mentioned in the guidelines of Coastal Aquaculture Authority, issued from time to time. This will ensure free / easy flow of institutional credit for coastal aquaculture and related ancillary activities. Development of coastal aquaculture clusters with basic infrastructure will be promoted, where the private entrepreneurs and small-scale aquaculturists can co exist. In allocating land use rights for shrimp culture, the rights of traditional local communities will be protected. For promoting polyculture (multi species culture) setting up of multi species brackish water fish species hatcheries will be given a thrust, besides increasing the capacity of existing hatcheries. Collection offish/shrimp seed and brood stock from the wild will be restricted through appropriate legal measures. The code on promotion of healthy management ofbrackish water fish/shrimp farms and hatcheries will be enforced. All the farms, hatcheries and other support facilities are to be compulsorily registered with the competent authority and to adopt the Code of Best Management Practices for healthy farm and hatchery management practices. In the long run, the adoption of Good Management Practices (GMP) will be popularised among the shrimp farmers, for a higher, more stable and more valuable production output. 10 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Shrimp farmers will be encouraged to form cooperatives, associations or self-help groups in order to exchange technology, improve their knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, to achieve co-operation in water use and waste management, sale of product and also to organize credit and other inputs and incentives. The Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act and Rules 2005 amended from time to time for regulation of coastal aquaculture and associated Guidelines and the code of practices for regulation of coastal aquaculture notified by the Govt. of India shall be strictly enforced for regulating coastal aquaculture in the State. Acknowledging the importance of ensuring compliance with the regulatory framework governing shrimp culture, various mechanisms in the form of prohibitions, restrictions or licensing measures to regulate the collection of seed and brood stock from the wild and to prevent the unauthorised introduction of non-native stock into shrimp farms, will be enforced. Regular monitoring and control of major pathogens in farmed and wild stocks, reporting procedures and actions to be taken in the event of a potential or actual disease outbreak, as well as testing and certification of mother shrimp/brood stock and hatchery seed and location requirements, will be given due consideration. To ensure that shrimp culture development and management are proceeding in a sustainable manner, its impacts on ecology and economy will be monitored regularly. Strict regulatory mechanisms to prevent sale and use of antibiotics and chemicals in coastal aquaculture systems will be introduced. S~milar mechanism will also be introduced to prevent sale of fish feed (both in fresh and brackish water farming) not maintain standards as per BSI standards and Gol Orders. Coastal aquaculture will be supported through capacity building and human resource development particularly in the areas of sustainable aquaculture practices, prevention, control and treatment of shrimp and fish diseases. Appropriate awareness programmes for enhancing the technical knowledge and environmental awareness among the fisheries personnel, extension workers, aquaculturists and all those involved in related activities for planning and operation of sustainable aquaculture will be considered for introduction. 3. Hilsa Fisheries Hilsa being the most desired fish species (State fish) and considering its sharp decline of catch for the last some years, special efforts will be taken for its conservation and propagation through Hilsa Conservation and Research Center (HCRe). 3.1. "lIish", the common household name for Hilsa, having migratory habits, is a significant component of open- water capture fishery in our state contributing to about 19% oftotal fish landing in the Hooghly estuarine system. 3.2. It provides livelihood to thousands of fishers in the state. 3.3. Wanton exploitation, pollution & habitat destruction, has led to an alarming decline in the availability of Hilsa both in sea and rivers. 11 Dept!. of Rshery, Govt. of W.B. 3.4. The natural recruitment of Hilsa is threatened due to over fishinQ.of the juveniles and thus has resulted a marked reduction in the catch size as well as the maturity , size of Hilsa. 3.5. Further Amendments will brought about in the Inland & Marine Fisheries Act/rules, to facilitate protection of Juveniles, restriction on Gears & fishing periods, declaration ofsanctuaries, etc. 3.6. Awareness programmes through camps, posters, flex, leaflets, PA system, Advertisements, etc, are being carried out regularly. Consumer and retailer awareness will be focused up on. 3.7. Co-management and community-based management will be encouraged for conservation. 3.8. Monitoring & Surveillance are being carried out to stop exploitation of juveniles and destructive fishing. 3.9. Survey of number of Hilsa Fishers & alternate livelihood issues are being looked in to and will be explored further. 3.10. Research initiatives (adoptive) & laboratory setup are under way as per the advise of a Technical committee. The latest trends in Hilsa research are being followed-up with CIFRI. 4 Marlnefisheries Collection of reliable statistics on marine fisheries and related aspects using standardised methodologies will be given due importance with a view to make a reliable assessment of marine fishery resources and the fishery potential. Due attention will be given for the use of information technology, strengthening of database in marine fisheries, Human Resource Development, etc.. The guidelines and provisions of the Comprehensive Marine Fisheries Policy (2004) of the Central Government which advocates protection and conservation of the resources, encouragement of subsistence level fishermen and technology transfer to small-scale sector and infrastructure support to industrial sector, will be adopted. For reducing fishing pressure in the traditional fishing areas, resource specific fishing in the offshore areas will be promoted, by refurbishing the existing trawlers and by designing and introducing new fuel efficient fishing crafts. It is advocated that the provisions of West Bengal Marine Fisheries Regulations Act (WBMFRA) will be strictly enforced and a stringent fishery management system put in place. The restriction of fishing effort in the territorial waters of West Bengal will be in the form of restriction in the number of vessels, number of days or hours at sea, engine power, size of the fishing gear and mesh size, prolonged seasonal closure to allow recovery of over-fished species, prevention of fishing juveniles and spawners during breeding/spawning season and reduction in fishing pressure on over-exploited fishery resources, for which appropriate enforcement measures/mechanisms will be introduced. 12 A sound Monitoring, Control and Surveillance system (MCS) including the Vessel Monitoring System(VMS) on the lines of international standards, will be implemented to check violation of the provisions ofWBMFRAand intrusion offishing vessels of the neighboring states/countries into coastal and territorial waters ofWest Bengal. The following policy intervention will be made: • The inshore resources will be properly assessed and optimum number of craft gear combinations of non-motorized and motorized 'country craft, me-chanized gill netters and trawling boats will be fixed. • Reserve coastal waters up to a depth of 10 fathoms for the exclusive use of the artisanal units. • Complete ban on night trawling and stipulate a quota system of catches for each trawling boat. Prohibit stationary bag net (behundi jal-a kind of gear/net) in the inshore waters. Control destructive fishing such as the use ofthe small-size mesh. Make concerted efforts to provide regular feed-back of relevant data to the fish workers. Develop a consciousness among the workers regarding the nature of resources and the need for management. Prevent indiscriminate dumping of toxic materials, industrial effluents and sewage through greater penal action against offenders. Encourage awareness of the need for preserving the environment. Safety at sea and losing a life of a fisherman is a serious concern. Besides human misery, the cost of search and rescue is also an additional burden on the government agencies, which can be largely reduced, if the fishing bo~ts adopt the use of simple communication and navigation equipment and sea safety measures. Measures will be taken so that Fishing Boats are provided with modern fishing gadgets such as GPS, VHF communication system, fish finders, OAT etc. and the sea going fishers will be trained to use them properly. The weather forecast and disaster warning systems also in audio mode will also be strengthened further. Improvement of Craft Design towards more safety of fishermen and supporting hygienic conditions while in fishing will be looked into. 4.1 Co-management and Community involvement in fisheries management Co-management is considered the most suitable approach to manage fisheries given that the fishing community has its own management traditions and institutions. It should be seen as a process, whereby through actual practice, a multi-tiered system has to be evolved given the length of the coastline and the different administrative jurisdictions involved. Existing traditional and self-organised structures at grass roots level need to be used as "building blocks" for this approach. 13 Recognising the role of the Government in establishing conditions for co-management in fisheries, legitimacy and accountability for the local organisations and institutional arrangements will be created. The Government will strive to create the necessary enabling environment to promote the establishment of Fisheries Management Institutions at local government and community levels to ensure the effective participation of stakeholders in the fisheries sector; permit communities to engage in fisheries management and development activities; ensure the provision of appropriate support services to fisheries management institutions at village community levels; and train government officials in the principles, practices and benefits of co-management. Capacity-building and orientation will be required at different levels and for different sets of stakeholders. A start could be made by initiating a state level platform along with some pilot projects that will provide learning on structure and functions of co- management. The current 'open access' arrangements which predominate in the fisheries shall be changed to a 'limited access' framework. One of the implications will be that new boats cannot be added to the fleet at will, by anyone, without proper scrutiny. In the end, any limited entry scheme will have to transit over time into a formalised system of fishing rights to West Bengal fishers in order to be effective and sustainable. 4.2 ReduGiDg.and Contr.olling Fishing Capacity The first set of capacity controls need to start with the trawl fleet (bottom trawling) as it is the most over capitalized part of the sector and having a seriously negative impact on fishing habitat, fish resources, and other fishermen. Trawl fleet reduction could be achieved by formally closing new entry into the trawl 'fishery'and stopping any fleet expansion and! or moves to increase unit capacity (size, .horse-power). Conservation! Management measures for endangered species will be formulated in consultation with primary stakeholders, concerned agencies and institutions. Harvest of fish and shrimp by the trawlers in the shallow coastal areas (within 40- meter depth) will be banned. Effective measures will be taken for implementation ofcode of conduct for responsible fisheries. With the help of experts, administrators and fishermen representatives, the number of trawlers that can operate in different parts of the coast will be fixed ar d a package of measures to retire the excess trawl fleet defined. This could include re-deployment of vessels or retirement of vessels or a 'buy-back' scheme. This type of arrangement will only be successful in the long-run if a formalised system of fishing rights is introduced at the same time. The safety of fishermen venturing out in deep sea will be a priority for the Government. The Transport Department will be partner with the Fisheries Department in putting in a system for regular checks of the engine and other safety paraphernalia. 14 4.3 Deep Sea Fishing It should be recognised that deep sea resources are not entirely state resources, but also national as well as international resources. Deep sea fishing opportunities certainly exist, but not to the extent that they can be used to address the overcapacity in coastal waters. Deep sea fishing will be promoted in stages after establishing appropriate technology and scale of operation, ensuring that it is profitable for the operators and the resource available. 4.4 Mariculture as an alternative to Fishing Alternative or supplementary employment opportunities including mariculture need to be evaluated carefully and should have a sound management framework before being promoted as a solution to the fisheries management problem in West Bengal. Introduction of Mariculture shall be backed by an implementable policy and legal framework, reliable R&D efforts from National Fisheries Research Institutes (like CMFRI-ICAR) in the areas of controlled production of seed, feed and economy of culture operation and marketability of the products. 5 Post-harvest Infrastructure support &marketing 5.1 Fish Quality and related infrastructure. Development of appropriate fish handling, processing, preservation, transportation, distribution and marketing systems will be encouraged both in the inland and marine capture fisheries and aquaculture. Use of low cost energy sources in fish processing, particularly non-conventional energy sources will be considered and promoted. Plant quality control and hygienic conditions in fish processing establishments will be improved and maintained by enforcing the Code for Good Manufacturing Practices. Development of improved fisheries sector infrastructure and equipment, including fishing boats, fish landing sites, fish stores, fish markets, and systems for the transport offish that contribute to maintaining the quality of harvested fish will be promoted. Large capacity ice plants, chilled rooms and stand alone cold storages will be established at strategic locations with irradiation facility as a common facility, with uninterrupted power supply. Ice storage boxes at Beel-Baor / reservoir sites and Fish Landing Centres/Jetties along the coast will be promoted where there are no Ice plants. With a view to reducing the number of intermediaries in supply of ice for fish preservation, to maintain its shelf life and marketing offish cultured in selected viable pisciculture clusters, flake/tubular ice plants of adequate capacity will be promoted for producing quality ice. Hygienic handling, dry fish processing and production of value added products in the small-scale sector by the Women SHGs will be encouraged by improving their skill through training and providing the requisite market tie up. Measures as appropriate for ensuring the quality, wholesomeness, safety for human consumption and value of harvested fish and fishery products will be promoted and introduced in a phased manner, based on Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Total Quality Management (TQM). 15 The following policy interventions will be made. I'll Hygiene conditions onboard the fishing vessels, landing centers and local processing units are very poor and minimum standards wherever existing are hardly followed. Therefore, aggressive training of fishers on personal hygiene with the support from Government and non-government organization will be provided. I'll Efforts will be made to reduce the cost of ice and to increase the quality of ice. ® All fisheries processing factories will meet the Sector Standard on food safety (FSSAI), hygienic conditions, and standards of Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) of European Commission; and capable enterprises will strive for application of International Standard Quality Management System in 2010 * Focus on developing the domestic market for VAPs. Value Added Products of frozen fish will be strengthened for local and international markets. * Training of entrepreneurs on available technologies in Value added products Health and safety standards (HACCP/ GMP) and its compliance ® Measures to utilize freshwater fishes for preparation of value added products especially for domestic market Quality of products for domestic market. Programs for product diversification like sea bass, seaweed, scampi etc. along with emphasis on value addition ® Developing fish meal from the trash fish and by-catch can be a substitute to imported fish meal Export Product composition 6 Fishery Harbours and fish landing centres Efforts will be made for equipping all the fishery harbours and fish landing centres in all marine hubs along the West Bengal coast and made fully operational by providing all the basic infrastructure facilities such as road, communication, electricity, cold storage facilities, ice plants and through maintenance dredging for keeping the entrance to harbours/landing centres free from siltation, which hinders the free passage offishing crafts. Management ofmost of the facilities already created calls for improvements in terms of internal resource generation, maintenance and upkeep. All fish landing centers of the State will be converted into hygienic and modern fish landing facilities. Landing of fish in the fish landing centers will be made obligatory. Road, electricity, pure water and ice supply will be ensured in each fish-landing center. These issues will be subjected to a detailed evaluation. For construction, operation and maintenance of the new fishery harbours and fish landing centres on PPP / Joint Venture mode, involvement of private sector/community including the fisheries cooperatives in particular will be encouraged. For effective operation and management of both the existing and new fishery harbours and landing centres, a Fishery Harbour Authority (FHA) will be set up as an autonomous organisation based on the guidelines ofthe Union Government. 16 ·, 6.1 Fish marketing and trade Measures will be taken to achieve sustainable increase in the value and volume offish marketed for domestic consumption and export. Proper marketing facilities will be made available for whole sale/retail fish market including creation of modern fish market complex and modernisation of existing fish markets in industrial belt/cities and towns in association with the municipal/local organisations. Efforts will be made to fully comply with national and international requirements in post harvest care of fish catch and fishery products and by-products so as to achieve highest food safety standards for domestic consumption and exports. The following policy interventions will be made. @ Organized modern markets with hygienic and modern facilities will be ensured in each fish market with waste management. Hygienic condition, prescribed by the government will be followed strictly in all fish marketing places including retail and wholesale markets. e Branding will promoted to achieve brand equity @! Cold-chain system will be established in fish marketing. Businesspersons will be encouraged to establish cold-chain based marketing systems. @ Strengthen domestic markets and ensure fish used for marketing should be free from germs and rotting; and properly preserved fish using ice or frozen, maintaining FSSAI stipulations are only marketed. Legal actions will be taken against marketing of rotten, bad odour, preserved using materials (unfit for human consumption and / or not conforming FSSAI stipulations) and unsuitable for human consumption fish. @! Fish or shrimp transportation by open van, truck or other such vehicle will be banned. Only insulated or refrigerated fish van should be used for fish transportation. e After harvest use of sufficient quantity of ice will be encouraged during preservation, transportation and marketing. Fishers will be encouraged to keep the fish in cold storage priorto marketing. @ Promote the marketing of low value fish through SHGs, etc for low income groups Establish wholesale and retail fish markets. Private sector will be encourage to set up supermarket and ultramodern fish retail shops/fish boutiques to provide hygienic fish food. @! Training on quality awareness will be conducted for whole sellers as well as for retailers 6.2 Safety offishermen at Sea and welfare offishermen The fisher community will be provided with the requisite navigational and communication instrUments, early warning about the cyclone, tsunami, storm surge, floods, etc., through easily accessible means for ensuring safety of the fishing community both atsea and on land. 17 The following policy intervention will be made. • Focus will be on improving the social, health and nutritional, economic and environmental conditions of the poor and their access to decision-making. @) Alternative livelihood opportunities for men and women will be created during closed season, conservation programmes and also as an alternate option for them. @ Relief during closed season based on economic status of individuals not households both in Marine and Inland. @ Encourage women in all activities offisheries and aquaculture. @ Fishing communities are vulnerable to disasters and other health risks. Awareness programs and capacity development programs on disaster management are needed. Community based Disaster Management will be given emphasis. @ In addition fisher folks will be covered under insurance. Insurance should be there for natural calamities, against threat of life/accident as well as economic loss. Insurance to crafts and gears will also be included. • Development initiatives shall incorporate the priorities and needs of both women and men and give them equal opportunities to access benefits and services. @ Housing facilities will be continued. @) Schemes for empowerment ofwomen will be introduced. • Introduction of Scheme (Samajik Mukti Card) for the fisher and fishermen as a whole. @ Providing I Card / Biometric I Card for all fisher and fishermen. 7 Livelihoods It is important to build upon the social strengths and social capital of the fishing community and to set an approach for enhanced fisheries livelihoods within the context of 'sustainable fisheries', focusing on achieving a balance between economic growth, security offish resources and equitable development. A process-oriented approach is essential and one that values the strengths and capacities of fisheries stakeholders such as strong social cohesion, strength of community institutions, competitiveness and strong position of women within the household. Issues on education of fishermen / women, vocational training on improved fisheries techniques, health including provision of specialised health care facilities and health insurance for fishing community, sanitation and social security issues, resettlement and rehabilitation of coastal marine fishermen, extension of saving-cum-relief scheme, housing, group accident insurance scheme to the fishing (inland and marine) community, alternate and supplementary livelihood options and grant of social benefits to migratory fishermen and those fishermen without land holding, will all be given adequate importance. 18 8 Environment and fisheries The Government will ensure: 5 that environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is carried out and taken into consideration in all large-scale/commercial fisheries sector projects. @ control/ban destructive fishing and processing methods. $ monitor and review environmental protection measures applied in the fisheries sector. $ promote protection of the fragile eco-systems, eco-system processes and conservation ofbiodiversity. @ protect vulnerable, endangered and threatened aquatic species, habitats and areas ofspecial ecological significance. @ promote the development of alternative sources of income generating activities to fisheries. ' @ minimise adverse environmental impacts on fisheries by establishing mechanisms at appropriate levels. @ set binding minimum standards for protection of the environment from fisheries and aquaculture activities; @ establish and/or maintain systems to monitor the quality of aquatic environments that support active fisheries; Ell promote public awareness among all the stakeholders of the need to protect aquatic ecosystems that support fisheries; and 5 promote multi-disciplinary research into adverse environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems that support fisheries. A concerted strategic action plan will be evolved and implemented to conserve and protect the rich aquatic biodiversity of the State. 9 Encouragement for growing small indigenous fish species (Supplementary nutrition) Over emphasis of composite fish culture in tanks and ponds has resulted little or no importance of the small indigenous fish species, which are rich in micronutrients, vitamin A, calcium, iron and zinc, and animal protein and essential fats are consumed by the poor rural peoples. Increasing the quantity and frequency of small fish consumption can boost nutrition, health and well-being of the rural population, ofWest Bengal, who can not supplement nutrition by any other means. Seasonal or small size ponds including backyard ponds and rice fields are suitable for culture of minnows (small indigenous fish species) such as mourala (Amblypharyngodon sp.), Puntius sp., Gobids, colisha, nados, koi etc., which have shorter life cycles, provide supplementary nutrition to the rural poor. These species are not cultured in a regular and systematic manner. They are naturally available in ponds and otherwater bodies and are harvested to meet the local demands. To make full use of this potential of small fish species for improving micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women, lactating mothers and children in particular, measures to develop and implement sustainable, low-cost culture technologies for management, production and accessibility of nutrient-rich small, fish with required R&D support from National Fisheries Research Institutes shall be demonstrated to aquaculturists. Culture of these minnows in seasonal and backyard ponds, composite fish culture systems along with major carps and rice-fields will be encouraged. KnOWledge and information about the nutritional value of small fish, and how best to include them in diets provided under the noon meal scheme in schools and health centres shall be disseminated to a cross section of the fisheries officials, health care providers, educators, and others. Awareness will be created among the rural masses .on the value of the consumption of micronutrient-rich small fish by pregnant and lactating women and children. 10 Ornamental Fishery The State of West Bengal being the first in introducing ornamental fishery in the country and the oldest Ornamental Fish Hut is located in Kolkata (Hati Bagan/Galiff Street) in the country and the climate is suitable for breeding and culture of more than 180 fish species, special emphasis will be made for setting up of Ornamental aqua Hub towards large scale development of this sector, which will ensure employment of huge nos of rural women folk and contribute significantly in FOREX earning. Special thrust on ornamental fish culture in small scale sectorwill be given. Emphasis should be given to intensification of breeding and culture of ornamental fis,hes. 11 Adaptation to Climate Change In view offast changing climate, more heat, less rain which is likely to crate impact on fish farming, proper measure as to application of Flow thru system of irrigation canal water for fish farming, drawing less ground water by the Fish Seed Hatchery and introduction of re-circulatory system, introduction of Aqaponics etc. (less water intensive fish farming) will be considered I tried. 12 Fish Tourism & Solar Power PPP and Joint Venture Fish tourism will be developed in and around Bengal's large number of big water bodies. Some of these resources will be developed into Fish Tourism (a kind of eco tourism), where water sports, country side ambience, varieties of fish and value added fish products with stay over night. This will provide additional employment to the fisher as well as multiple uses of resources. 20 13 Information, Education and Capacity building (IEC) and awareness Information, Education and Capacity building (IEC) and awareness, are the catchword for improving the knowledge base at the grass-root level and also for popularizing the issues relating to conservation, management and development of the fisheries resources among the resource users and for providing food, nutrition and livelihood security to the fishers. Effective systems for the collection (through engagement of Matsya Bandhu / Matsya Prajukti Sahayak etc., utilising / associating NGOs), compilation, analysis, storage, dissemination and updating information and database on fisheries and aquaculture will be established for planning, management, monitoring and evaluation purposes. Informal and formal literacy programmes for fishing communities will be initiated to improve the literacy levels of the fishers. Local organisations and government departments will be encouraged to make use of various support agencies, for promoting and supporting formal and informal literacy programmes among the fishers. Comprehensive training, exposure visits, refresher courses, extension services, advisory and awareness programmes will be promoted and implemented so as to build human resource capacity and to increase levels of knowledge, skill and expertise among the State fisheries officials, rural masses, fishers and in the public and private sectors, at district and village levels, by suitably strengthening the State Fisheries Colleges / Faculties and the Fisheries Training Centres in West Bengal, besides opening a newfisheries college in North Bengal. Public education programmes to the fisher folk will be introduced so as to increase awareness and understanding on fisheries concerns and to facilitate information exchange. Towards this, every year particularly during November-December "Fisheries Week" or "Meen Mahotsav" or "Nadi Utsav" will be observed for awareness creation, and the visitors and all kinds of stake holders will be encouraged to release certified fish seed in pUblicwater bodies, like planting trees/saplings. Hands-on training of the school children in fish farming and related activities such as pond preparation, stocking, feeding, harvesting, etc., will be introduced as a part of their curriculum by attaching a school in each village/block with a fish pond, to enable children in popularising aquaculture among the rural masses. The following policy intervention will be made: @ Sensitization of the extension officers to change the mind set from predominantly desk based to field based / client based approach. • Disseminate the fisheries and aquaculture information over radio and TV • As part of duty, each fisheries officer from district down to block level will interact with a group of fishermen once a month in a programme to be popularized as "MeetYour Fisherman once in a Month" • Exchange of information by several methods has shown to have good results. In the age when communication is growing at rapid strides, training on standardization process of fish culture practices for different zones should be initiated 21 Fisheries societies or entrepreneurs should be trained in scientific bio-waste management. Better utilization of wastes from peeling sheds, processing units and fish markets is need of the hour and therefore bio-waste management should be made compulsory. Training on quality awareness should be conducted for wholesalers, retailers and all the marketing functionaries in the value chain to encourage hygiene and safety standards at domestic markets by fishers themselves. Demonstration farms will be established in contact farmers' ponds. Contact farmers will be trained on fish culture. Emphasis will be given to ensure timely input supply. Fisheries extension officers will visit these ponds regularly and provide advice and conduct in-situ training. Demonstration ponds will be established in all feasible unions. Organizations engaged in fisheries resource development, extension, management and technology development would be coordinated. 14 Entrepreneurship development & Self Employment Private entrepreneurship in fisheries sector is essential both for substantial increase in fish production and for creating considerable self-employment for rural youth. But this has not been developed due to mainly for want of motivation, technical and financial support. Government will playa catalyst role in self-employment through developing private entrepreneurship in fisheries, in the areas of fish farming, integration of fish culture with livestock rearing and paddy cultivation, fish seed production, ornamental fish trade, fish processing, production of value added fishery products, fish marketing (wholesale/retail), fish trading/vending, transport operations, net mending /repairs, setting up small-scale industrial units for production offishing equipment! ornamental fishery ancillary equipment, trading of aquaculture instruments, outboard and inboard motor repairing workshops, etc. Special emphasis will be laid on creation of self employment opportunities by up gradation of skills of the potential entrepreneurs and creating required support systems to ensure that a sizable number of unemployed youth, women and poorer sections of the society can take up self employment activities in the fisheries and allied sectors fortheir economic empowerment. There is a lack of skilled trainers to disseminate information and assist in developing skills in marketing and management for fisheries entrepreneurs. As entrepreneurial training can act as a tool to assist the development of an informed private sector, it can be expected that cohesive and coordinated training programmes can assist private sector development. The other major bottleneck in entrepreneurship development and self-employment is the credit requirement, which is not met by the formal lending institutions. Therefore, an atmosphere conducive for providing access and / or control over land and 22 resources, basic infrastructure, finance, support systems such as extension services and specific credit, market support services, skill up-gradation including training and education, sharing of capital contribution and promoting linkages for adequate finance, linking fish and fishery products to domestic and export market etc., will be promoted in the State for entrepreneurial development. 15 PPP & JointVenture in fisheries Public-private investment partnerships (PPP) and Joint Venture that equitably benefit both fishing communities, including the poorest and most vulnerable members of those communities, as well as the private investor, will be promoted. An enabling environment that promotes the establishment and growth of community based private enterprises in the fisheries sector will be created. Joint partnerships between the entrepreneurs and the small-scale fishers of West Bengal in various fisherieslfishery related activities will be encouraged for harnessing judiciously the inland, brackish water and marine resources. 16 Special assistance for SC/ST peoples in fisheries Proper forward and backward linkages at various levels between the Fisheries functionaries and the SC/ST community (fisher I fishermen by caste) are the need of the hour, if the downtrodden are really to be helped in improving their socio-economic condition and livelihood. This will aid in the men and women SHGs among the SCs/STs gaining confidence and taking up fish farming as one of the activities for improving their income and livelihood. The requisite assistance at micro-level starting from identification of the progressive SHGs among the SC/ST community, registering them under the FFDAs/BFDAs, providing them training, allotting water areas for farming, arranging financial support for pond development and inputs to technical and extension support for fish farming and marketing, will be promoted. Skills of (fisher I fishermen by caste jele/malo/kaiborto etc) in catching fish will be turned to their advantage by filling gaps in terms ofproviding fishing gears and marketing avenues. 17 Fiscallncentives Declaration of aquaculture as an agriculture activity for enabling easy flow of credit I institutional finance, lower power tariffs, tax, excise I customs duty concessions Iwaiver lexemptions and water supply and issue of Kisan Credit Cards (Matsyajibi Credit Card), will be considered in consultation with the authorities concerned. Special emphasis will be given to ensure that financial institutions and insurance agencies extend credit facilities at par with existing agriculture sector so that small fish farmers and fishermen are also benefited and KCC is given major emphasis. Loan to be sanctioned and disbursed without collateral security as the socioeconomic status of the small farmers are weak. Necessary incentives and tax holidays will be provided to large-scale fish farmers who produce 10 tonnes/ha or more of fish with an emphasis towards production of big size fish (preferably rohu, catla, chital). 23 To make fish processing in West Bengal more lucrative and competitive in export and domestic markets, the duties, taxes and other levies such as cess on export offish and fishery products, on packaging material, machinery, etc, will be rationalised in consultation with the authorities concerned. Adequate and timely credit to investors particularly towards working capital to fish processing sector; increasing the limit on enterprise size to a level which will qualify the fish/shrimp producers/ processors for: priority lending; and provision of working capital for primary fishery cooperative societies for their revival, will be promoted. In consultation with the Insurance companies and other authorities concerned, the issue of providing insurance cover to fish ponds, along with standing crop, fishing/aquaculture instruments/equipmeflts, etc., will be considered. Government will promote insurance in freshwater aquaculture by providing 50% of the insurance premium for encouraging fish farmers as in the case ofbrackish water aquaculture. 18 Support for implementing the policy 18.1 Planning and Governance Systematic planning forms the basis for decision making in fisheries management and coordinating these activities with other sectoral planning and policy activities at all levels. Better representation of the collective interests of the sector shall be established in relation to wider development and planning issues, along with strengthening the capacity of stakeholders and concerned institutions to contribute and take responsibilityforfisheries sectoral matters in general. There will be coherence between the policies within and outside the fisheries sector, on the basis ofa set of principles including: (a) Holistic approach that recognizes the inter-connections between welfare, development and fisheries management with the allied sectors such as environment and forests, agriculture, Panchayat and rural development, water and land resources, social and women welfare, etc; (b) Ensure that all policies and schemes are in harmony with fisheries management objectives; and (c) Achieve a balance in funding for management, welfare and development. It is important to move from a focus on fisheries management (or development) to a focus on fisheries governance, with an emphasis on sustainability. Future institutional transformation and change management will need to involve mind set (attitude) changes, along with perspective shifts, and institutional culture changes (ofofficials, fishers and other stakeholders). For long-term, effective and positive change in the fisheries (With a focus on improved governance), a publicly stated commitment is required from government, fishing community and other stakeholders to invest in a consultative process to evolve a workable and visionary institutional design. 24 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Towards this, the institutional capabilities and competencies of officials as well as the fishers will be evaluated, planned and invested in. 18.2 Building capacity It is important to build and develop sustained capacity among stakeholders to make appropriate choices about their livelihoods. This will include establishing networks of services and institutional support (e.g. financial services, technical training and advice). Adaptive capacity to respond to future change will be built up and purely technical responses to current short-term issues will be avoided. It will be ensured that the Government engages with a range of institutions and agencies across sectors for building capacity in sustainable fisheries development and management. Evaluation of long-term impacts of interventions will be undertaken and used to inform future approaches for fisheries development and management and livelihood enhancement among the fishers. . 18.3 Fishery Co-operatives I FPGs I SHGs Steps will be taken to strengthen the existing Primary Fishery Co-operative Societies (PFCS) / FPGs / SHGs, and to revive the sick Marine PFCSs & Fisheries Federation (BENFISH) with the assistance of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC). Co-operative societies will be trained in professional and scientific fish culture and management. 19 Equity and Gender budget It will be ensured that women, the youth and poor people in particular are beneficiaries ofthe fisheries sector. The Government will address the issues relating to equity in employment and business opportunities; and ensure equity in the access, tenure, participation and sharing of benefits that accrue in fisheries. The gender concerns will be integrated in fisheries planning, decision making and implementation, to ensure sustainable social and economic development. Gender budgeting is gaining increasing acceptance as a tool for engendering macroeconomic policy making. There is a need to mainstream a gender perspective into key macroeconomic and social development policies and development programmes. During the 9th Five Year Plan "Women/minorities Component Plan" was adopted as one of the major strategies by the Union Government to encourage "not less than 30 per cent of the funds/benefits are earmarked in all the women related sectors". 20 Research and Technology services Research and technology based fisheries will be promoted through effective and demand- led cost effective research, to be carried out by GOI, ICAR Fisheries Research Institutes, Fisheries Science Faculty / University etc. in close co-ordination 25 Deptl. of Fishery, Govt. of w.s. with the State Fisheries Department that responds to the needs of the fisher folk, fish farmers, private investors and communities that are in front line of sustainable fisheries management and development. The issues for research items will be however, as to be identified by Fisheries Department from the field. The following policies will be followed: • Mutual linkage and co-operation will be established between the research institutes and the users' group of the research. Emphasis will be given on practical research in the universities. • These institutions will survey, formulate and execute research projects with different government and private agencies through utilizing their infrastructure capacity. • Research will be based on the development needs of the State and country as a whole to reflect problems and identify possible solutions. • Relative productivity of different water bodies, employment opportunities and economic profitability will be the research priorities. 21 Advisory support services Fisheries extension service delivery system will be adopted through the existing district and village .level fisheries organisations / NGOs / Farmers Clubs by suitably strengthening them besides establishing Village Knowledge Centres at the village/panchayat level, linking them with the respective One Stop Aqua Shop (OASIS), to provide information and advice, and facilitate extension service for all the fisher communities and fish farmers. 22 Global Change The policy takes account of the latest paradigm shift in related Central/State government policies as well as the international aspects of fisheries management and market demands (such as World Trade Organisation (WTO)/ International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations, FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, FAO's International Plan of Action for the Management of Fishing Capacity and the International Plan of Action to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing). The West Bengal government will consider these aspects and take appropriate action as required for addressing these issues for effective fisheries management and development in West Bengal. 23 Institutional Arrangements Productive linkages will be established with all macro-level institutions relevant to the management and development of the fisheries sector and to the socio-economic development of the people who depend on the sector. 24 Organisational aspects A strong technical team; a strong core management team; and a strong monitoring, surveillance and control team will be built up in the State Fisheries Department to plan, implement and manage fisheries management and development programmes. The 26 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Department of Fisheries shall have a mandatory role in approvals of urban and industrial development that have an effect on fisheries and/or fishers' livelihoods. Fisheries Department will be strengthened with requisite technical and engineering personnel for smooth and successful implementation of fisheries programmes and activities. Statistical wing in fisheries will be strengthened by developing proper data collection system /market study mechanisms to provide proper information and data bank for future planning. More Training Institutes will be set up for imparting short term & long term training to fish farmers & fisheries officials. Existing State Level/District level laboratories will be strengthened and rest of the districts will be provided with new laboratories for soil & water analysis. Sophisticated laboratory on the regional basis (in each Zone) will be set up in collaboration with the Fisheries Science Faculty / Krishi Vigyan Kendra for providing laboratory services like test of poisoning, disease etc. Services of fishery consultants & expert will be availed of whenever required for implementing new technologies. 25 Legal framework The West Bengal Inland Fisheries Act (WBIFA) & West Bengal Marine Fishing Regulation Act (WBMFRA) shall be the "enabling act" that gives the Government the power to strictly enforce the provisions of the Act and the Rules framed there-under. The customary rights of fishing communities will be recognised. Comprehensive legislation encompassing integrated coastal management, fisheries conservation, fisheries management and recognising rights of fishers which is essential will be evolved and put in place from time to time. As and when the need arises, the W.B. Land and Land Reforms Act, will suitably be refined to facilitate conferring the rights with the Fisheries Department for capture and culture fisheries in the inland and brackish water areas, grant of long-term lease of these water bodies, etc. 26 Fisheries Reform A Fisheries Reform Programme will be established in West Bengal, the overall goal of which will be to en~ure that the fisheries sector makes a positive net contribution to sustainable development in West Bengal. Fisheries reform will focus on a move towards a more democratic and participatory management system based on a co management approach. This would require serious and appropriate investment in building the capacity of the fishing community and Department of Fisheries to engage with, and contribute effectively to the process. The programme will establish and operationalise appropriate frameworks, processes and capacities in the public and private sectors, and civil society, which will facilitate the planning, design and implementation of appropriate fisheries development and management strategies and plans the basis ofa new governance-framework. In due course, with the establishment of an effective reform process, the fisheries sector in West Bengal will transit to one characterised by productive, efficient and sustainable fisheries, offering a wide range of livelihood opportunities and 27 Deptt. of Fishery, Gov!. of w.s. employment to thousands of fishers and other stakeholders, as well as contributing to the state economy. In the context of increased threats and pressures from unsustainable fishing practices, climate change and the impact of other competing developments, leading to a rapid decline in the benefits generated by the sector, efforts will be made to reform the fisheries sector in West Bengal. This will ensure the recovery and future resilience of the sector and achievement of its full potential as a source of livelihoods for the fishers. 27 Funding Successful implementation of the policy framework requires timely and adequate funding. West Bengal Government will make all out efforts to provide adequate funding to the fisheries sector through State and Central Plan schemes, as well as from external sources like NFDB, NCDC etc. 28 Monitoring and evaluation lIine progress of implementing the Fisheries Policy requires an effective monitoring and evaluation mechanism with appropriate and efficient feed back mechanism. Regular monitoring and assessment will be accomplished by setting up a Policy Advisory Unit in the Department of Fisheries to provide systematic. inputs for refining the policy depending on the future needs, its implementation and management, to handle inter-sectoral issues and to protect the interests of fisheries and fishing communities. 29 Policy Review The policy will be reviewed at every 5 years to continue to align with the successive Five Year Plans of the Government, national priorities and global issues, including the impact ofclimate change, fisheries governance, etc. 30 Concluding remarks This policy document highlights the need for an integrated multi-disciplinary approach for achieving sustainability in the fisheries sector of West Bengal. Implementation of this policy requires inter and intradepartmental coordination and cooperation which is central to the growth offisheries sector. It is with hope thatthis policy will strengthen the implementation of the identified strategies and initiatives for developing and managing the fishery resources of West Bengal sustainable and for securing the food, nutritional and livelihood security of the people ofWest Bengal. 28 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY Part-II : The West Bengal Fisheries Investment Policy-2015 Investment in fisheries Implementation of the fisheries policy will require significant financial resources. An investment climate and a long term investment programme for the sustainable management and development of the fisheries sector in the State will be created. Public, private sector and community based investment in the fisheries sector that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable will be promoted. The following policy intervention will be made: 1. Maximization of Private Investment on Government Properties and private properties for setting Fish Feed Plants, Modern Fish Seed Production Units, Hatcheries, Fish Pharmaceuticals, Ornamental Fish Production Farm, Aquaculture, Pisciculture in big water bodies, Post-Harvest Fish Processing, Modernization of Fish Markets, Eco-tourism, Fisheries Hubs, Fish Harvesting Equipments and Net Making Units, Cold Chain Plant etc. at micro, small, medium and large scale of industries. , . 2. The state government shall continuously work towards enabling business environment in the following manner: a. Providing a better and more conducive business environment for Fisheries Sector. b. Introduction of timelines defined in respect ofall clearances. c. Reducing labour disputes', strike free and hassle free conducive business environment. d. Encouraging joint ventures with private sector in entire value chain of the Fisheries Industry. e. Creating marketing infrastructure and support through setting up haats, fisheries parks and facilitating participation ofstate's fisheries sector in fairs/exhibitions. f. Enhancing the quality of human resource through training and skill development programmes. g. Developing export processing zones. h. An Investment Cell of Fisheries Directorate (Investment Promotion Unit) will look into private investment related issues and maintain liaisons with other line departments for obtaining necessary clearances. 3. Land Policy Investment in the Govt. Land Land Allotment Policy-2012 ofWest Bengal will be applicable to the land owned or held by Fisheries Department or any agency funded by Fisheries Department. In this regard the following steps will be taken: 29 Deptl. of Fishe!Y. Gov!. of W.B. 3.1 Methodology for Expression of Interest: 1. Suitable available Water Bodies/Land of this Department would be transferred to the investors by the Government by way of long term lease for a maximum period of30years. 2. For pisciculture in big water bodies held by Fisheries Department/Collector, will be leased for fish production to private sector on terms mentionem JI'l the Land Reforms Manual. 3. The Fisheries Directorate with concurrence of the Fisheries Department will invite Expression of Interest (EOI) for setting up industry/farm from the Industr.ialists/ entrepreneurs/investors. 4. Final decision will be taken as per West Bengal Land Allotment Policy- 2012 in regard to transfer of land by way of short term/long term lease. West Bengal Land & Land Reforms Manual will be followed for processing land transfer on lease. 5. NoJeased land shall be kept idle indefinitely and will not be allowed for other than Fishery related industry. From the date of lease document registration and handing over the possession, construction of unit should start within 6 months and production shall be started within a maximum period of 2 years, failing which the land/waterbody will be reverted back to the state. 3.2 Models of Investment on LandlWater Resources of Fisheries Department 1. Short term lease/Long Term Lease to Private investors. 2. A State Level Committee constituted by the Fisheries Department will study the scope, feasibility, profitability, social effect etc. of investment proposals. 3.3 Investment in Private Land Fisheries Department will encourage investment in Fisheries Sector on private land purchased or held by private owner and will extend all kinds of applicable assistances/incentives. Setting up Fishery industry/Fishery Farm in potential areas will be more beneficial for the investors as there is more government assistance available. 4 Fiscal incentive and Concessions for Fishery Industry 4.1 Micro (Rs. 151akh & above upto Rs.1 crore) and Small (More than Rs.1 crore & upto 5 crore) Enterprise 4.1.1 Capital investmen~~ubsidy Entrepreneurs setting up units in Zones A, B, C, D & E will get subsidy on capital investment subsidy as stated below Micro Enterprise • Zone -A-15% • Zone - B- 20% 30 WEST BENGAl FISHERIES POliCY • Zone-C-25% • Zone D & E - 40% Subject to maximum of Rs. 20 lakh for all zones. Small Enterprise Zone-A-10% • Zone 8-15% • Zone C-20% • Zone D-30% • Zone E - 50·%, However, all the'Se. concessiQI'iI are subject to maximum of Rs.60 lakh for all zones excepting Rs. 1 cror:afQTZooe:-E. 20% additional subsim¥ om admissill>le subsidy for· all micro and small enterprises wholly owned by,twomen'and SC/ST community. 4.1.2 Electricity [Juty Approved pr.0jects in various zones will be entitled to waiver duty on electricity consumedforrthe production/ operation activity as shown in below MiCJlCi).Enteliprise • Zone A&B - 100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 6 years. • Zone C, D & E - 100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 7 years. Small Enterprises • Zone A&8 - 80% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumptjpn for 5 years. • Zone C, D & E - 100% waiver ofelectricity duty on the electAcity consumption for 5 years. 4.1.3 Power subsidy • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwhforunits in Zone-A, 8 • Subsidy ofRs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, D & E For 05 years; subject to a ceiling of Rs. 30 lakh per annum for micro enterprises, Rs. 40 lakh per annum for small enterprises 4.1.4 Stamp Duty Entrepreneurs will be entitled to refund of stamp duty and registration fee paid by them for registration of documents within the state for purchase and acquisition of land and buildings for setting up approved projects in the following rates: 'H Dept!. of Fishery, Gov!. of WS. Micro Enterprise • Zone A-30% • Zone 8-55% • Zone C-80% • Zone - D & E - 100% Small enterprises • Zone A-25% • Zone 8-50% • Zone C-75% • Zone D-90% • Zone E 100% 4.1.5 Reimbursement ofValue Added Tax (VAT) Micro and Small Scale uriits will be reimbursed the amount paid for VAT as follows: • Zone A - 60% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. • • • Zone 8 - 70% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. Zone C - 80% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. Zone D & E - 90% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% affixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. 4.1.6 Waiver of Land conversion Fee The payment of conversion fee for converting the land from agriculture to fisheries I aquaculture use including for development of fisheries industrial areas I Integrated Fishery Zones by private investors will be waived as detailed below: • Zone A-25% • Zone 8-50% • Zone C-75% • Zone D& E-90% The waiver of conversion fee will be on reimbursement basis after implementation of projects. 4.1.7 Central Sale Tax (CST) Total refund for 3 years from the date ofcommencement ofcommercial production. 32 WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY 4.1.8 Work force welfare assistance Reimbursement of 100% in 1st year & 75% in next remaining years expenditure incurred towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) as follows: ZoneA 3 years, Zone B - 5 yrs., Zone C - 7 yrs., Zone 0 & E - 9 yrs. 3.2 Medium (above Rs. 5 crore &upto Rs. 10 crore) Enterprise I Industry 4.2.1 Capital investment Subsidy Entrepreneurs setting up units in Zones A, B, C, 0 & E will get subsidy on capital investment subsidy as stated below • Zone A-5% • Zone B-10% • Zone C-15% • Zone D&E-20% However, all these concession are subject to maximum of Rs. 75lakh. 4.2.2 Electricity Duty Approved projects in various zones will be entitled to waiver duty on electricity consumed forthe productionl operation activity as shown in below • Zone A&B - 80% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 4 years. • Zone C, 0 & E - 100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 4 years. 4.2.3 Powersubsidy • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for units in Zone-A, B • Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, 0 & E For 05 years; subject to a ceiling of Rs. 50 lakh per annum 4.2.4 Stamp Duty Entrepreneurs will be entitled to refund of stamp duty and registration fee paid by them for registration of documents within the state for purchase and acquisition of land and buildings for setting up approved projects in the following rates: • Zone A-20% • Zone B-45% • Zone C-70% • Zone D&E-80% 33 Dept!. of Fishery, Gov!. of W.B. 4.2.5 Reimbursement ofValue Added Tax (VAT) Entrepreneurs will be reimbursed the amount paid for VAT as follows: • Zone A - 60% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. • • • Zone B - 70% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. Zone C - 80% VATJetund paid for 8 years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever' readied earlier. Zone D & E - 90% VAT refund paid for 8 years or 75% affixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. 4.2.6 Waiver of Land conversion Fee The payment of conversion fee for converting the land from agriculture to fisheries I aquaculture use including for development of fisheries industrial areas I Integrated Fishery Zones by private investors will be waived as detailed below: • Zone A-25% • Zone B-50% • Zone C-75% • Zone D&E-90% The waiver of conversion fee will be on reimbursement basis after implementation of projects. 4.2.7 Central Sale Tax (CST) Total refund for 3 years from the date of commencement of commercial production 4.2.8 Work force welfare assistance Reimbursement of 100% in 1st year & 75% in next remaining years expenditure incurred towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) as follows: ZoneA 3 years, Zone B -5 yrs., Zone C-7 yrs., Zone D & E- 9yrs. 3.2 Large (above Rs. 10 crore) Enterprise !Industry 4.3.1 Capital investment Subsidy No direct capital investment subsidy will be applicable, however, assistance as available under WBSSIS -2013 in the fqrm of .Industrial Promotion Assistance, equivalent to 80% (B&C) / 90% (D & E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit will be applicable for specified no of years & upto 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever is reached earlier. 4.3.2 Electricity Duty Assistance as available underWBSSIS, 2013 will be followed 34 .,' WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY 4.3.3 Power subsidy • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for units in Zone-A, B • Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, 0 & E For 05 years; subject to a ceiling of Rs. 751akh per annum 4.3.4 Stamp Duty Assistance as available underWBSSIS, 2013 will be followed 4.3.5 Reimbursement ofValue Added Tax (VAT) No direct reimbursement of VAT will be applicable, however, assistance as available under WBSSIS -2013 in the form of Industrial Promotion Assistance, equivalent to 80% (B&C) 190% (0 & E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit will be applicable for specified no of years & upto 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever is reached earlier. 4.3.6 Waiver of Land conversion Fee The payment of conversion fee for converting the land from agriculture to fisheries 1 aquaculture use including for development of fisheries industrial areas 1 Integrated Fishery Zones by private investors will be waived as detailed below: • Zone A-25% • Zone B-50% • Zone C-75% • Zone D & E - 90% The waiver of conversion fee will be on reimbursement basis after implementation of projects. 4.3.7 Central Sale Tax (CST) No direct Central Sale Tax refund will be applicable, however, assistance as available under WBSSIS -2013 in the form of Industrial Promotion Assistance, equivalent to 80% (B&C) 190% (D & E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit will be applicable for specified no of years & upto 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever is reached earlier. 4.3.8 Work force welfare assistance Assistance (i.e. Additional incentive on generation of employment) as available under WBSSIS, 2013 will be followed. 35 Dept!. of Fishery, Gov!. of W.B. 5. Conditionsl Eligibility for availing Assistance Under this policy the following conditions to be strictly maintained to avail incentives and concessions • • • • • • • • Unit must be fishery items producer If any subsidy admissible not covered by other department that will be provided from this department. Unit will have to strictly observe requisite pollution control compliances Modern/Hi-Tech Plant & Machinery to be installed to confirm the standard productivity. • Unit will have to commit to remain in production at least for five (5) years from the date of commercial production. Fish Seed/ Fish production shall be for authenticated fish species and maintaining hygienic practices / norms. Regular energy audit to be conducted and standard energy efficiency to be ensured wherever applicable. Unit will have to follow applicable laws/labour laws. Defaulting unit in payments of governments will not be eligible for assistance under this policy. • Any benefit by way of incentives enjoyed by any unit from any other department of the State/Central Government shall, however, be adjusted while determining the entitlement of such units under the W B Fisheries Policy-2014 and in no case the amount of incentive under different items in aggregate should exceed total Capital Investment. 6. Classification ofAreas: List Zones The districts have been divided into 5 (five) Zones for differential treatment under the West Bengal Fisheries Investment Policy. Considering the needs of inclusive growth, the policy provides additional incentives for investment in fishery potential regions of the state 36 · WEST BENGAL FISHERIES POLICY i ! lI Zone-A Zone- 8 Zone- C Zone- 0 Zone-E I "%' Districts I "K Districts '* Districts * Districts * Districts !, P r !{} Jalpaiguri ~~? Hooghly 1 6 Purba () CoochbeharI··"· uru la I@ Alipurduar Medinipur1*' Paschim (; Howrah Medinipur ·1 'n Birbhum « Bankura ~h North 24 l~· arjeeling Hill ParganasI vistricts (GTA M South 24 Parganas :;0" Murshidabad f1: Nadia @ Burdwan ~t· Uttar Dinajpur. r$:? Dakshin Dinajpur. *=* Maida. I 6 Siliguri Mahakuma Parisad *' including Municipal I Corporation areas 7. Commencement and Duration The West Bengal Fisheries Policy, 2015 will come into effect on and from the date of publication of notification in Kolkata Gazette in the whole ofWest Bengal and remain valid for next 05 (five) years from the date of notification. 37 '''''' Matrix on West Bengal Fisheries Policy-2015 Capital investment I. Zone-A-15% • Zone-A-10% Subsidy • Zone-B-20% • Zone-B-15% • Zone-C-25% • Zohe-C-20% • Zone-D &E-40% • Zone-D-30% • Subject to maximum of • Zone-E-50% Rs. 20 lakh • Subject to maximum of • 20% additional subsidy Rs.60 lakh excepting Rs. 1 on admissible subsidy crore for zone E. for all micro enterprises • 20% additional subsidy on wholly owned by wo~en admissible subsidy for all and SC/ST community. small enterprises wholly owned by women and SC/ST community.c..:> ex> SI. No. Iteml Incentive Micro (Rs 151akh & aboveuptoRs 1 cr) Small (above Rs. 1 cr & uptoRs.5 Medium (above Rs. 5 cr & uptoRs. 10 crore) • Zone-A-5% • Zone-B-10% • Zone-C-15% • Zone-D&E-20% • Subject to maximum of Rs.75lakh Large (above Rs. 10 cr) No direct capital investment subsidy will be applicable, however, assistance as available under WBSSIS -2013 in the form of Industrial Promotion Assistance, equivalent to 80% " (B&C) 190% (D&E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit will be applicable for specified no of years &upto 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever is reached earlier. Cl (l) ~ sa. n m' 16 :<! G> ~ sa. ~ ~ 2 Electricity Duty • Zone A&B- 100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for6years. • Zone C,D&E-100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 7years. • Zone A&B-80% waiver af electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 5years. • Zone C,D&E·100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 5years. • Zone A&B-80% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 4 years. • Zone C,D&E-100% waiver of electricity duty on the electricity consumption for 4 years. Assistance as available under WBSSIS, 2013 will be followed Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for units in Zone- A, B Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, D&E • Subject to aceiling of Rs. 751akh per annum for 05 years • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for I • units in Zone-A, B • Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for I • units in Zone- C, D&E • Subject to a ceiling of Rs.50 lakh per annum for 05 years. • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for units in Zone- A, B • Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, D&E • For 05 years; Subject to a ceiling of Rs. 40 lakh per annum • Subsidy of Rs. 1.00/Kwh for units in Zone-A, B • Subsidy of Rs. 1.50/Kwh for units in Zone- C, D&E • For 05 years; subject to a ceiling of Rs. 30 lakh per annum Power subsidy3 w (0 Matrix on West Bengal Fisheries Policy-2015 51. Iteml Micro Small Medium Large (Rs 151akh & (above Rs. 1 cr & (above Rs. 5 cr & No. Incentive aboveuptoRs 1 cr) uptoRs.5 uptoRs. 10 crore) (above Rs. 10 cr) 4 Stamp Duty • Zone-A-30% • Zone·A·25% • Zone-A-20% Assistance as available under WBSSIS, 2013 • Zone-B-55% • Zone·B-50% will be followed • Zone-B-45% • Zone-C-80% • Zone-C-75% • Zone-C-70% • Zone-D&E·100% • Zone·D-90% • Zone-D&E-80% • Zone E-100% 5 Reimbursement of • Zone A-60% VAT refund • Zone A -60% VAT refund • ZoneA-60% VAT refund paid No direct reimbursement of VAT will be Value Added paid for 8years or 75% of paid for 8 years or 75% of for 8 years or 75% of fixed applicable, however, assistance as available Tax (VAT) fixed Capital Investment fixed Capital Investment Capital Investment under WBSSIS -2013 in the form of Industrial whichever reached whichever reached earlier. whichever reached earlier. Promotion Assistance, eqUivalent to 80% (B&C) earlier. • Zone B -70% VAT refund • Zone B-70% VAT refund paid 190% (D&E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit • Zone B-70% VAT refund paid for Byears or 75% of for B years or 75% of fixed will be applicable for specified no of years &upto paid for 8years or 75% of fixed Capital Investment Capital Investment 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. whichever reached earlier. is reached earlier. whichever reached • Zone C -80% VAT refund • Zone C-80% VAT refund paid earlier. paid for Byears or 75% of for B years or 75% of fixed • Zone C-80% VAT refund fixed Capital Investment Capital Investment paid for 8years or 75% of whichever reached earlier. whichever reached earlier. fixed Capital Investment • Zone D&E -90% VAT refund • Zone D&E -90% VAT refund whichever reached paid for Byears or 75% of paid for 8 years or 75% of earlier. fixed Capital Investment fixed Capital Investment • Zone D&E-90% VAT whichever reached earlier. whichever reached earlier. refund paid for Byears or 75% of fixed Capital Investment whichever reached earlier. 6 Waiver of Land • Zone-A-25% • Zone-A-25% • Zone-A-25% • Zone-A-25%conversion Fee • Zone-B-50% • Zone·B-50% • Zone-B-50% • Zone·B-50% • Zone-C-75% • Zone-C-75% • Zone·C·75% • Zone-C-75% • Zone·D&E-90% • Zone-D&E-90% • Zone-D&E·90% • Zone·D&E-90% ~ ~ !Xl m z ~ ." ~ ~ ~ e Q Matrix on West Bengal Fisheries Policy-2015 Total refund for 3 years from ITotal refund for 3 years from the date of commencement the date of commencement of ofcommercial production commercial production SI. No. 7 Item! Incentive Central Sale Tax (CST) Micro (Rs 151akh & aboveuptoRs 1 cr) Total refund for 3 years from the date of commencement of commercial production Small (above Rs. 1 cr & uptoRs.5 Medium (above Rs. 5 cr & uptoRs. 10 crore) Large (above Rs. 10 cr) No direct Central Sale Tax refund will be applicable, however, assistance as available under WBSSIS -2013 in the form of Industrial Promotion Assistance, equivalent to 80% (B&C) 190% (D&E) Tax (VAT & CST) paid by the unit will be applicable for specified no of years &upto 75% of the Fixed Capital Investment, whichever is reached earlier. i So ~ :::r CD ,;;! ~ So ::E ?' ~ o 8 Work force welfare assistance Reimbursement of 100% in 1st year & 75% in next remaining years expenditure incurred towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) as follows: ZoneA 3years, Zone B-5 yrs., Zone C-7 yrs., Zone D&E-9yrs. Reimbursement of 100% in 1st year & 75% in next remaining years expenditure incurred towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) as follows: Zone A 3 years, Zone B-5 yrs., Zone C 7yrs., Zone D&E-9yrs. Reimbursement of 100% in 1st IAssistance (i.e. Additional incentive on year & 75% in next remaining generation of employment) as available under years expenditure incurred WBSSIS, 2013 will be followed towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) as follows: Zone A 3 years, Zone B-5 yrs., Zone C-7 yrs., Zone D&E -9yrs. Note: 1. Any benefit by way of incentives enjoyed by any unit from any other department of the State/Central Government shall, however, be adjusted while determining the entitlement of such units under the W B Fisheries Policy-2015 and in no case the amount of incentive under different items in aggregate should exceed total Capital Investment.