State enrols nearly 2.85 lakh fishers under the Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS), offering coverage of up to ₹5 lakh under PMMSY.

Key Highlights

• Andhra Pradesh joins the Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS) for the first time in FY 2026-27.
• 2,84,888 fishers proposed for insurance coverage.
• Scheme provides accident insurance of up to ₹5 lakh and hospitalisation support of ₹25,000.
• No insurance claims have been filed or settled so far under the current policy period.
• Centre has streamlined claim procedures through standardised formats, timelines and regular coordination with states.

Andhra Pradesh Brings Nearly 2.85 Lakh Fishers Under PMMSY Insurance Cover

New Delhi, July 29: Andhra Pradesh has joined the Group Accident Insurance Scheme (GAIS) under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for the first time, extending accident insurance coverage to nearly 2.85 lakh fishers across the state.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying informed the Rajya Sabha that the state has enrolled 2,84,888 fishers under the scheme for the policy period 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2027, marking its first participation since PMMSY was launched.

Insurance Cover of Up to ₹5 Lakh

The Group Accident Insurance Scheme provides financial protection to marine and inland fishers as well as allied fish workers.

Benefits under the scheme include:

• ₹5 lakh for accidental death or permanent total disability.
• ₹2.5 lakh for permanent partial disability.
• ₹25,000 towards hospitalisation expenses resulting from an accident.

The insurance premium is shared between the Centre and states in a 60:40 ratio, while Union Territories receive full Central funding.

No Claims Filed Yet

The Ministry stated that no insurance claims have been filed for settlement so far under Andhra Pradesh’s current policy period.

Officials noted that claims must be:

• Reported within 120 days of the accident.
• Submitted with complete documentation within 180 days.

The government said these timelines are intended to ensure faster processing while maintaining transparency.

Centre Simplifies Claim Settlement Process

To improve claim settlement efficiency across the country, the Department of Fisheries has introduced several administrative measures, including:

• Standardised claim application formats.
• Uniform documentation checklists.
• Clearly defined timelines for claim submission.
• Regular review meetings involving state fisheries departments, insurance intermediaries and insurance companies.

These measures are aimed at reducing delays and ensuring eligible beneficiaries receive compensation promptly.

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Impact

Although primarily a social security initiative, the expansion of accident insurance coverage for Andhra Pradesh’s fishing community contributes to the long-term stability of the state’s seafood industry. A financially protected workforce supports uninterrupted fishing activity, helping maintain a steady supply of seafood for hotels, restaurants, resorts and foodservice businesses.

As one of India’s largest seafood-producing states, Andhra Pradesh plays a critical role in supplying fish and seafood to domestic hospitality markets as well as export channels. Strengthening fisher welfare under PMMSY complements broader investments in fisheries infrastructure, supporting sustainable coastal livelihoods and reinforcing the seafood ecosystem that underpins coastal tourism and culinary experiences.