Gujarat removes length cap for fishing boats to avail diesel VAT relief; 18,000 vessels to benefit

Ahmedabad, Jul 8 (PTI) The Gujarat government on Wednesday removed the 20-metre length restriction under its diesel VAT relief scheme for mechanised fishing boats, making more than 18,000 registered vessels eligible for the benefit in a move aimed at reducing fuel costs for fishermen. The decision was taken at a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, government spokesperson and minister Jitu Vaghani told reporters. Under the revised scheme, all mechanised fishing boats, including deep-sea vessels, will be eligible for diesel VAT (Value-Added Tax) relief. Earlier, only mechanised boats measuring less than 20 metres in length were covered under the scheme. To avail the benefit, boat owners must register their vessels on the Real Craft Portal and possess a valid fishing licence, Vaghani said. He informed that more than 18,000 registered mechanised fishing boats across Gujarat are expected to benefit from the revised scheme. Eligible boat owners will be issued diesel cards, under which they will receive VAT relief of up to Rs 15 per litre on diesel. However, if the applicable VAT is lower than Rs 15 per litre, the benefit will be limited to the actual VAT amount. According to the minister, the decision is expected to lower fuel expenses for fishermen operating small, medium and large mechanised boats, improve their earnings and strengthen their financial condition. He urged fishermen who are yet to register on the Real Craft Portal or obtain a valid fishing licence to complete the formalities to avail the benefits under the revised scheme. PTI PJT RSY