Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has disbursed Rs 161.86 crore as the fourth tranche of financial assistance for fishermen who lost their livelihoods due to the installation of ONGC pipelines in Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema and Kakinada districts. The Chief Minister made the announcement on World Fisheries Day from his camp office in Tadepalli. Originally scheduled to release the funds during a visit to the Sullurpet Assembly constituency, the trip was cancelled due to heavy rains.
The assistance, totalling Rs 69,000 each, will be directly deposited into the bank accounts of 23,458 affected fishermen. The government’s plan extends monthly aid of Rs 11,500 for six months, covering the period from January to June 2023. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of fishermen’s families, bringing the total government payout to Rs 485 crore.
Addressing the recent fire mishap at the Visakhapatnam fishing harbour, the Chief Minister assured quick financial aid to boat owners who lost their vessels. He directed officials to promptly distribute compensation cheques to affected fishermen’s families, with each receiving 80% compensation based on the value of their destroyed boats.
In a virtual participation during the program, Fisheries Commissioner Kannababu informed the Chief Minister that Andhra Pradesh had been honored with the Best Fisheries State Award. Officials representing the state received the award in Gujarat at a specially arranged function. The event was attended by Fisheries Minister Dr S Appla Raju and senior officials.
