Mukhyamantri Talab Matsyaki Vikas Yojana
50–70% subsidy for pond construction and advanced fish-farming inputs — up to ₹8 lakh per beneficiary — to modernise pond fishery across Bihar.
Run by: Directorate of Fisheries (Department of Animal & Fish Resources), Government of Bihar
- Subsidy rate
- 50–70% (category-wise)
- Max pond subsidy
- Up to ₹8 lakh
- Input subsidy
- Up to ₹4 lakh (seed, feed, medicines)
- Implementing agency
- Directorate of Fisheries, Bihar
- Apply at
- fisheries.bihar.gov.in
Overview
The Mukhyamantri Talab Matsyaki Vikas Yojana is a state scheme run by the Directorate of Fisheries, Bihar, to promote pond-based fish farming in rural areas. It provides financial assistance for constructing new fish ponds and for purchasing advanced inputs like quality fish seed, feed, fertiliser and medicines.
The subsidy ranges from 50% to 70% depending on the beneficiary category, with up to ₹8 lakh in combined assistance — covering both pond construction and input costs. Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and women beneficiaries receive the higher subsidy rate. The scheme targets both existing fish farmers looking to expand and new entrants who want to start pond fishery on their own land.
Bihar has significant inland fishery potential with its extensive river systems, floodplain wetlands and ponds. This scheme channels that potential into a productive livelihood by removing the capital barrier — the cost of digging and lining a fish-worthy pond — that keeps many small farmers from entering the sector.
What you get
The benefit as the state notifies it — nothing here is an estimate.
- 50–70% subsidy on pond construction cost — higher rate for SC/ST and women beneficiaries.
- Up to ₹4 lakh additional subsidy for advanced fishery inputs: quality fish seed, feed, fertiliser and medicines.
- Combined assistance can reach up to ₹8 lakh per beneficiary for pond building plus inputs.
- Promotes modern, scientific fish-farming practices through extension and training alongside the subsidy.
- DBT-based payment directly to the beneficiary's Aadhaar-linked bank account.
Who is eligible
State schemes usually state their criteria as prose rather than a checklist. This is that prose, unpacked — the department’s verification is what decides.
You qualify if
- Farmer or fish cultivator in Bihar with own or leased land suitable for pond construction
- New entrants willing to start pond fishery are eligible alongside existing fish farmers
- SC/ST and women beneficiaries receive higher subsidy rates (up to 70%)
- General category beneficiaries receive 50% subsidy
Not covered
- Applicants without valid land ownership or lease documentation for the pond site
- Those who have already received a similar pond-construction subsidy under another state or central scheme
Documents you need
Have these ready before you start — most rejections are a missing paper, not a missing right.
- Aadhaar card
- Land ownership or lease document for the pond site
- Bank account passbook (Aadhaar-linked, for DBT)
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST category applicants)
- Passport-size photograph
How to apply
Fewer steps than a central scheme, and usually one office rather than a portal.
- 1
Register on the Fisheries Bihar portal
Visit fisheries.bihar.gov.in, create an account and register with your Aadhaar and mobile number.
- 2
Fill in the online application
Complete the application form with personal, land and pond details. Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
- 3
Verification and approval
The district fisheries officer verifies land records and site suitability. Once approved, the subsidy is sanctioned.
- 4
Pond construction and input purchase
Build the pond as per approved specifications. Purchase fish seed, feed and other inputs from approved suppliers.
- 5
Subsidy release via DBT
After verification of completed work, the subsidy amount is transferred directly to your Aadhaar-linked bank account.
If something goes wrong
Missing from the list, or payment stuck — here is the channel the department itself publishes for it.
- For application status, delays or rejection issues, contact the district Fisheries Officer or the Directorate of Fisheries, Patna.
- For escalation, use Bihar Lok Shikayat portal at lokshikayat.bihar.gov.in or call 1800-345-6284 (toll-free).
Frequently asked questions
How much subsidy does a general-category farmer get?
50% of the pond construction and input cost, with a combined ceiling of up to ₹8 lakh.
Do SC/ST farmers get more?
Yes. SC/ST and women beneficiaries receive up to 70% subsidy on the same components.
Can a new farmer with no fish-farming experience apply?
Yes. The scheme is open to new entrants who want to start pond fishery on their own or leased land.
What does the input subsidy cover?
Quality fish seed, feed, fertiliser and medicines for the pond — up to ₹4 lakh separately from the pond-construction subsidy.
Where do I apply?
Online at fisheries.bihar.gov.in. Create an account, fill the form and upload your documents.
How is the money paid?
Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to your Aadhaar-linked bank account after verification of the completed pond.
Facts checked against fisheries.bihar.gov.in on 30 September 2026. editorial policy.