How to Apply for the Manipur Fishing License: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Manipur Fishing License

A Fishing License is a mandatory legal authorization that permits individuals or organized groups to undertake fishing activities in regulated water bodies. In Manipur, fishing is deeply linked to traditional livelihoods, especially around wetlands and lakes such as Loktak. To regulate inland fisheries, protect aquatic biodiversity, and ensure fair access to fishing resources, the Government of Manipur issues the Manipur Fishing License through its Fisheries Department.

Official Manipur Fishing License Portal: https://fisheries.manipur.gov.in

Verification & Trust Note: Fishing without a valid license in Manipur is a punishable offense under state fisheries regulations. Always apply only through official government portals or authorized local offices.

What is a Manipur Fishing License?

The Manipur Fishing License is an official permit issued by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur. It authorizes eligible residents to engage in fishing activities in notified inland water bodies such as lakes, rivers, reservoirs, ponds, and wetlands, subject to conservation rules and seasonal restrictions.

Why the Manipur Fishing License is Important

  • Regulates inland fishing activities across the state

  • Protects fish breeding cycles and aquatic ecosystems

  • Prevents illegal and destructive fishing practices

  • Identifies licensed fishermen eligible for welfare schemes

Eligibility Criteria For Manipur Fishing License Application

Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions as prescribed by the Government of Manipur:

  • Age Requirement

    • Applicant must be 18 years or above

  • Income / BPL Requirement

    • No strict income ceiling for general licenses

    • BPL households and traditional fishing communities may receive priority or concessional fees

  • Residential Requirement

    • Applicant must be a resident of Manipur

    • Proof of residence is mandatory, especially for lake-specific fishing rights

  • Special Categories (If Applicable)

    • Traditional fishing communities

    • Fishermen Cooperative Societies

    • Self-Help Groups (SHGs) involved in fisheries

    • Government-approved research or conservation fishing activities

Documents Required For Manipur Fishing License Application

Applicants should keep the following documents ready:

  • Aadhaar Card or any valid Government Photo ID

  • Proof of Residence (Ration Card, Voter ID, or Residence Certificate)

  • Passport-size photograph

  • Mobile number for communication

  • Previous fishing license (for renewal cases)

How to Apply for a Manipur Fishing License Online Method

Eligible applicants can apply Manipur Fishing License online through the official Fisheries Department portal or state service platforms when available.

Step-by-Step Online Application Process

  1. Visit the Official Portal
    Go to: https://fisheries.manipur.gov.in

  2. Register / Login

    • Register using your mobile number and basic details

    • Existing users can log in directly

  3. Fill the Application Form

    • Select “Fishing License / Inland Fisheries Permit”

    • Enter personal details and select the preferred fishing area

  4. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload ID proof and a photograph

    • File format: PDF/JPEG

    • Recommended size: 200–300 KB

  5. Pay License Fee (If Applicable)

    • Fees vary by district, water body, and applicant category

    • Online payment options may be available

  6. Submit Application & Track Status

    • Submit the form

    • Save the Application Reference Number

How to Apply For Manipur Fishing License Offline

Applicants who prefer offline mode can apply through local offices.

Offline Application Steps

  1. Visit the nearest Fisheries Office / District Office / Gram Panchayat

  2. Collect the Manipur Fishing License Application Form

  3. Fill in all required details carefully

  4. Attach photocopies of mandatory documents

  5. Submit the application along with applicable fees

  6. Collect the acknowledgment receipt or the issued license

Processing Time: Typically 3–15 working days, depending on verification and district procedures.

Track Application Status

For online applications:

Offline applicants can check their status directly at the issuing Fisheries Office.

Renewal / Re-Verification Process

How Often is Renewal Required?

  • Fishing licenses in Manipur are generally issued:

    • Annually, or

    • Seasonally, depending on the fishing rules

  • Renewal must be done before the license expiry

Documents Required for Renewal

  • Previous fishing license

  • Aadhaar or valid ID proof

  • Updated photograph (if required)

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: Aadhaar or Name Mismatch

Solution: Update Aadhaar details via UIDAI before applying

Problem: Document Upload Failure

Solution: Upload documents in PDF/JPEG format within 200–300 KB

Problem: Application Rejected Due to Restricted Water Body

Solution: Apply only for officially notified fishing zones

Problem: License Expired During Fishing Activity

Solution: Renew the license before expiry to avoid penalties

Important Government Links

FAQs:

Q. How to apply Manipur Fishing License online?

A. Apply through the official Manipur Fisheries Department portal.

Q. Is a fishing license mandatory in Manipur?

A. Yes, fishing without a valid license is illegal.

Q. Who can apply for a Manipur fishing license?

A. Residents of Manipur, especially traditional fishermen and cooperatives.

Q. What is the validity of the Manipur fishing license?

A. Usually annual or seasonal, depending on permit type.

Q. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

A. Aadhaar or any valid government ID is required.

Q. Can I fish anywhere with one license?

A. No, licenses are valid only for specified water bodies.

Q. Is fishing allowed during breeding season?

A. Generally restricted unless special permission is granted.

Q. What are the fishing license fees in Manipur?

A. Fees vary by district and applicant category.

Q. How to renew a fishing license in Manipur?

A. Renew online or at the issuing Fisheries Office before expiry.

Q. Where can I check official fishing rules?

A. On the official Manipur Fisheries Department website.

Conclusion:

The Manipur Fishing License is a vital legal document for anyone involved in fishing activities across the state’s inland water bodies. It ensures lawful fishing, conservation of aquatic ecosystems, and sustainable livelihoods for traditional fishing communities.

Applicants are strongly advised to:

  • Apply only through official Manipur government portals or offices

  • Follow seasonal fishing bans and zone restrictions

  • Renew licenses on time to avoid penalties

For the latest rules, fees, and updates, always check the official Manipur Fisheries Department portal.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Fishing rules, fees, and procedures may change. Always verify details from official Government of Manipur sources.