Central GovernmentVerified

Whale Shark Conservation Programme

The scheme aims to protect the endangered Whale Shark, the world's largest fish, along the Gujarat coast, a crucial breeding site. It mitigates threats from fishing by providing compensation for damaged nets and cultivates a strong conservation ethic among local fishermen and the broader public.

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About This Scheme

Launched in 2004, the "Whale Shark Conservation Programme" by the Forests and Environment Department, Government of Gujarat, aims to tackle the problem of incidental catch and conserve the magnificent Whale Shark species, ensuring its protection along the Gujarat coast. The scheme provides full legal protection to Whale Sharks, listing them under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 since May 28, 2001, marking it as the first fish protected by Indian law. It also features a compensation scheme for fishermen whose nets are damaged during rescue operations, and introduced a self-documentation process for claims in 2012. The fishermen must actively participate in rescue operations by reporting trapped Whale Sharks and assisting in their release. The scheme is implemented by the Forests and Environment Department. Applications for compensation under this scheme are accepted through reporting incidents to the forest range office or by self-documentation.

Benefits

> Compensation for Damaged Nets

₹25.0K

Fishermen are paid compensation not exceeding ₹25,000/- (twenty-five thousand rupees) in lieu of nets that are damaged or cut during rescue operations involving trapped Whale Sharks.

> Conditions for Benefit Availment/Disbursement

The rescue operation must be documented through videography or photography for compensation to be paid.

The fishermen must take photographs of trapped Whale Sharks, release them on the spot, and then submit this information and photographs after returning to the coast to receive their compensation.

Eligibility

Note: You may be eligible based on the information shown. Please verify the official eligibility requirements before applying.

Required Documents

✦
Proof of Identification as a Fisherman.
✦
Proof of Damaged Fishing Nets.
✦
Photographs of the Trapped Whale Shark (Required for both self-documentation and Department-led rescue claims).
✦
Photographs of the Whale Shark Being Released (Required for both self-documentation and Department-led rescue claims).
✦
Videography of the Rescue Operation.
✦
Any Other Relevant Information Regarding the Trapping and Release of the Whale Shark.

✦ Required ◦ Optional

How to Apply

IIn-person

For any assistance or to address grievances related to the Whale Shark Conservation Programme, applicants can utilize the official contact channels provided by the Forests and Environment Department, Gujarat. General FAQs and a Forest Helpline Number are available on the department's website for citizen queries and support. Specific contact details for Forest Officers are available on the main website of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & Head of the Forest Force, Government of Gujarat.

Quick Info

Level: Central Government
Max benefit: ₹25.0K