Fish farmers in Uttar Pradesh have received a major boost with the launch of a free Personal Accident Insurance Scheme offering coverage of up to ₹5 lakh. Introduced jointly by the Central and State Governments, the scheme aims to provide financial protection to eligible fish farmers against unforeseen accidents. Beneficiaries are not required to pay any insurance premium, as the entire cost will be borne by the government. To avail of the benefits, fish farmers must register on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP).
According to N.S. Rahmani, Director of the Uttar Pradesh Fisheries Department, eligible beneficiaries will receive accident insurance under the Government of India's Group Personal Accident Insurance Scheme. The policy provides financial assistance of up to ₹5 lakh in the event of accidental death or other covered incidents during the insurance period.
One of the key highlights of the scheme is that fish farmers will not have to pay any insurance premium. The premium cost will be shared equally by the Central Government (50%) and the State Government (50%). In cases of accidental death due to incidents such as drowning while fishing, snake bites, road accidents, or other eligible circumstances, the nominee or family of the insured person will receive insurance compensation of up to ₹5 lakh.
The scheme also provides financial assistance in case of accidental injuries. Beneficiaries suffering from permanent disability will be eligible for compensation of up to ₹2.5 lakh, while those sustaining serious injuries can receive up to ₹50,000 towards medical treatment expenses.
How to Apply:
To avail of the insurance benefits, fish farmers must first register on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP). After completing the registration process, applicants can submit their insurance application through the Insurance section available on the portal. Those facing difficulties with online registration can seek assistance at their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
No Registration Fee at CSCs:
The Fisheries Department has clarified that CSC operators will not charge beneficiaries any registration fee. The government will directly bear the service charges associated with the registration process. If applicants encounter any issues, officials and staff from the district Fisheries Department will provide the necessary assistance.
Scheme Expected to Boost Fish Farming:
The Fisheries Department believes that social security initiatives such as free accident insurance will encourage more farmers and rural youth to take up fish farming as a livelihood. Besides strengthening financial security for fish farmers, the scheme is expected to promote investment in the fisheries sector and support the long-term growth of fish production in Uttar Pradesh.
FAQs:
1. What is the insurance amount under the Free Personal Accident Insurance Scheme?
Eligible fish farmers can receive accident insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh.
2. Do fish farmers have to pay any insurance premium?
No. The entire premium is shared equally by the Central Government and the Uttar Pradesh Government.
3. Who is eligible for this accident insurance scheme?
Eligible fish farmers registered on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) can apply for the scheme.
4. How can fish farmers apply for the scheme?
Applicants must register on the NFDP portal and submit their application through the Insurance section. Assistance is also available at Common Service Centres (CSCs).
5. What benefits are available apart from accidental death coverage?
The scheme provides up to ₹2.5 lakh for permanent disability and up to ₹50,000 for medical treatment expenses resulting from covered accidents.
