How to Apply for the Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License: Online & Offline Application Process Complete Guide

Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License

A Fishing License is an official government authorization that allows eligible individuals and fishing communities to legally carry out fishing activities in notified water bodies. In Arunachal Pradesh, fishing is closely linked to rural livelihoods, inland fisheries, and community sustenance across rivers, streams, reservoirs, and ponds.

The state government regulates fishing activities to ensure sustainable use of aquatic resources, protection of indigenous fish species, and prevention of illegal fishing practices. Holding a valid Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License is mandatory for fishing in government-controlled or community-regulated water bodies.

A Fishing License is a regulatory permit, not a welfare pension document. However, it often helps eligible fishermen access government fisheries schemes, subsidies, training, and insurance coverage.

Official Arunachal Pradesh Government Portal: https://arunachalpradesh.gov.in

What is an Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License?

The Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License is an official permit issued by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh that authorizes eligible fishermen to engage in fishing activities in notified inland water bodies within the state.

The licensing process is administered by the Arunachal Pradesh Fisheries Department, functioning under the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary & Fisheries.

Objectives of the Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License

  • Regulation of fishing in rivers, streams, reservoirs, and ponds

  • Conservation of indigenous fish species and aquatic biodiversity

  • Identification and support of genuine fishermen

  • Prevention of illegal, destructive, and seasonal fishing violations

Department Link: https://arunachalpradesh.gov.in/fisheries

Eligibility Criteria For Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License Application

To apply for an Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License, the applicant must meet the following eligibility conditions:

  • Must be 18 years of age or above

  • Must be a resident of Arunachal Pradesh

  • Should be engaged in traditional fishing or fisheries-related livelihood

  • Income or BPL criteria may apply for concessional licenses

  • Must not have been penalized for illegal fishing or environmental violations

  • Special categories (if applicable):

    • Members of the fishermen cooperative societies

    • Scheduled Tribe fishermen (as per state policy)

    • Inland fishermen in rural and riverine areas

    • Women engaged in fisheries-related activities

Documents Required For Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License Application

Applicants must submit the following documents for an Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License:

  • Aadhaar Card

  • Arunachal Pradesh Residence Proof (Domicile / PRC / Voter ID)

  • Birth Certificate or Age Proof

  • Passport-size photographs

  • Income Certificate (if required for subsidy)

  • Caste / Tribe Certificate (if applicable)

  • Fishermen Cooperative Society Membership Proof (if applicable)

  • Self-declaration for fishing activity

How to Apply for an Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License Online Method

Important: In Arunachal Pradesh, fishing license services are often processed through a hybrid system. Online registration may be available in some districts, followed by offline verification.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the Arunachal Pradesh Government portal: https://arunachalpradesh.gov.in

Step 2: Register / Login

  • Register using mobile number and Aadhaar (if available)

  • Log in to the Citizen Services / Fisheries Services section

Step 3: Select Fishing License Service

  • Choose Fishing License / Fisheries Services

  • Read eligibility instructions carefully

Step 4: Fill the Application Form

  • Enter personal details, address, and fishing category

  • Mention river, stream, or water body (if required)

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

  • Upload scanned documents in PDF or JPEG format

  • Recommended file size: 200–300 KB per document

Step 6: Submit & Track Application

  • Submit the application

  • Save the Application Reference Number for tracking

How to Apply for an Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License Offline

Offline application is widely used and officially accepted, especially in rural and remote areas.

Step 1: Visit the Local Office

  • Fisheries Department Office (District / Circle level)

  • Gram Panchayat or Community Office

Step 2: Collect Application Form

  • Request the Fishing License Application Form

Step 3: Attach Documents

  • Self-attested photocopies of required documents

  • Passport-size photographs

Step 4: Submit Application & Get Acknowledgment

  • Submit the completed form

  • Collect the Acknowledgment Receipt

Track Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License Application Status

Applicants can track the Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License application status through:

Official Portal: https://arunachalpradesh.gov.in

Steps:

  • Log in to the portal

  • Enter Application Reference Number

  • Check verification or approval status

For offline applications, status can be checked at the local Fisheries Department office.

Renewal / Re-Verification Process

  • Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License is generally valid for 1–3 years

  • Renewal must be completed before expiry

  • Re-verification may be required based on the fishing zone and policy

Documents Required for Renewal

  • Existing Fishing License

  • Updated residence proof

  • Passport-size photograph

  • Renewal application form

Renewal Instructions: https://arunachalpradesh.gov.in/fisheries-renewal

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: Aadhaar or name mismatch

Solution: Update Aadhaar details via UIDAI and ensure consistency across all documents.

Problem: Document upload failure

Solution: Compress files to 200–300 KB and upload only PDF or JPEG format files.

Problem: Application rejected due to incomplete documents

Solution: Recheck the document checklist and resubmit missing documents.

Problem: Delay in approval

Solution: Visit the Fisheries Department office with an acknowledgment receipt for clarification.

Important Government Links

FAQ:

Q. How to apply Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License online?
A. You can apply through the official Arunachal Pradesh government portal if the service is available in your district.

Q. What is the minimum age for a fishing license in Arunachal Pradesh?
A. The minimum age is 18 years.

Q. Is a fishing license mandatory in Arunachal Pradesh?
A. Yes, fishing without a valid license is illegal in notified water bodies.

Q. Who issues a fishing license in Arunachal Pradesh?
A. The Arunachal Pradesh Fisheries Department issues the license.

Q. How long does approval take?
A. Usually 15–45 days, depending on verification and location.

Q. Is a fishing license renewable?
A. Yes, it must be renewed before expiry.

Q. Can women apply for a fishing license?
A. Yes, eligible women engaged in fisheries activities can apply.

Q. Is an income certificate compulsory?
A. It may be required for subsidized or special category licenses.

Q. Where can I fish using the license?
A. Only in designated rivers, streams, and water bodies notified by the government.

Q. Where can I download the Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License form?
A. From the Fisheries Department office or the official Arunachal Pradesh government portal.

Conclusion:

The Arunachal Pradesh Fishing License is essential for legal fishing, conservation of aquatic resources, and livelihood protection. It ensures responsible fishing while enabling fishermen to access government support and avoid penalties.

Applicants are strongly advised to regularly check the official Arunachal Pradesh government and Fisheries Department portals for updates on eligibility rules, renewal schedules, and new fisheries schemes.