Kerala has launched the She-Scooter scheme to help women fish workers and fish vendors make their businesses easier and improve their mobility. The initiative aims to reduce the travel difficulties faced by women who carry fish baskets and travel by buses and other public transport to sell fish directly to households.
The scheme is being implemented by the Fisheries Department through the Society for Assistance to Fisherwomen (SAF). Chief Minister V D Satheesan inaugurated the distribution of electric scooters under the SAF scheme and also opened a gathering of women fish-worker entrepreneurs.
Under the programme, the government will provide a 75% grant towards the purchase of an electric scooter, subject to a maximum assistance of ₹1 lakh. Eligible women can still apply for the benefit through SAF.
The scheme is open to women fish workers engaged in fish vending and women who have been SAF beneficiaries for at least five years. Applicants must be members of a registered fisherfolk family under FFR and permanent residents of a fishing village.
Applicants must not already own a two-wheeler and must hold a valid driving licence. Women fish workers can apply up to the age of 45, while SAF beneficiaries have an upper age limit of 50. Applicants must also have passed Class 10.
The state government says the initiative is aimed at creating a safer and more independent working environment for women fish-worker entrepreneurs while supporting their financial security and self-reliance.
