GST registration, proper certification: Maharashtra announces fresh guidelines for fish feed procurement

Under the revised guidelines, all subsidised fisheries projects in Maharashtra will now be required to procure feed exclusively from state-based suppliers who are recognised under central or state schemes, or are otherwise duly registered and subsidised by the government.

As per the guidelines, fish feed must be certified by recognised food safety bodies such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), or the Indian Standards Institution (ISI). The packaging must clearly display key nutritional details — including protein, fat, moisture, and carbohydrates — as well as manufacturing and expiry dates.

Suppliers will also be required to provide an official tax invoice and ensure the feed is delivered in sealed, hygienic packaging via clean, dry transportation. GST registration is mandatory for all suppliers, and record-keeping of purchasing farmers will now be compulsory.

The minister emphasised that Maharashtra has seen considerable investment in fisheries infrastructure through both central and state support. Projects like fish seed production and conservation centres, cage culture units, biofloc systems, RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture Systems), and nursery ponds, all rely heavily on the availability of high-quality feed.

“The effectiveness and full operational capacity of these initiatives depend largely on the timely supply of nutritious and certified fish feed,” Rane added.

Rane also highlighted the government’s focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly feed production. “Any complaints regarding feed quality from farmers or fishers will be taken seriously and addressed promptly,” he assured.