Gujarat Cabinet removes 20-metre length restriction for fishing boat diesel VAT relief

The Gujarat Cabinet on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) approved a revision to its diesel VAT relief scheme for mechanised fishing boats, removing the earlier restriction that limited the benefit to boats measuring less than 20 metres in length. The move is expected to extend the scheme to more than 18,000 registered mechanised fishing boats across the State.

Announcing the decision after the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, State government spokesperson and Minister Jitu Vaghani said all mechanised fishing boats, including deep-sea fishing vessels, would now be eligible for diesel VAT relief, subject to prescribed conditions.

Under the revised scheme, boat owners must register their vessels on the Real Craft Portal and possess a valid fishing licence to avail themselves of the benefit. Eligible boats will be issued a Diesel Card through which they will receive VAT relief of up to ₹15 per litre on diesel purchases.

The Minister said that extending this benefit to fishermen operating small, medium and large mechanised boats alike will significantly reduce their daily fuel expenses, strengthen their financial condition and enhance their income. He also urged fishermen who have not yet completed registration on the Real Craft Portal or obtained a valid fishing licence to do so at the earliest to avail the benefits of the revised scheme.

(with inputs from ANI)