Officials Directed to Implement Subsidies, Distribute Fish Seeds, and Develop Marine Resources
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu has directed officials to prepare comprehensive plans to provide electricity subsidies to all aquaculture farmers across the state, fulfilling a key promise from the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) election manifesto.
At a meeting held on Tuesday, December 17, the Minister stressed the urgency of distributing fish seeds by the end of January 2025. He urged people’s representatives to actively oversee the process in their districts, ensuring timely completion.
Highlighting pending issues, Mr. Atchannaidu instructed officials to expedite elections for fisheries cooperative societies in Srikakulam and West Godavari districts, which had been delayed.
Subsidies and Marine Fuel Initiatives
The Minister announced that ₹6.67 crore had been sanctioned for the immediate release of funds for fuel subsidies to fishermen. He directed that subsidies for boat fuel be provided in advance each year. Furthermore, the government is set to introduce marine fuel to cut costs, saving approximately ₹10 per litre, while planning to develop 54 government-owned fish seed ponds to bolster aquaculture production.
Artificial Reefs and Coastal Development
Mr. Atchannaidu revealed plans to establish artificial reefs along the Andhra Pradesh coastline in collaboration with the Kerala government. These reefs aim to boost marine resources and improve livelihood opportunities for coastal fishing communities.
Animal Husbandry Upgrades
The Minister also called for filling vacant positions in the Animal Husbandry Department and asked officials to submit proposals for constructing and repairing veterinary hospital buildings. He emphasized the importance of advancing Embryo Transfer Technology to breed disease-resistant livestock and ordered the provision of vaccines and deworming medicines for all cattle, sheep, and goats by January 2025.
High-Level Meeting Attendance
The meeting was attended by Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Principal Secretary M.M. Nayak, Animal Husbandry Director Damodar Nayak, Fisheries Commissioner Dola Shankar, and other senior officials.
These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing aquaculture, marine resources, and livestock sectors in Andhra Pradesh, aiming for significant socio-economic benefits.
