The Fisheries Department in Annamayya district is intensifying its efforts to assist local fish farmers and workers through a range of government-supported schemes. District Fisheries Officer, S. Sushmita, emphasized the department’s commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods and improving income opportunities for fishing communities across the district.
During a recent press briefing, Ms. Sushmita explained the department’s structure, which includes fisheries offices in Bahuda and Pileru, an Assistant Fisheries Office in Rajampet, and the Fisheries Development Office located in Madanapalle. Key locations like Madanapalle, Sambepally, Chitvel, Nandalur, Obulavaripalle, Pullampet, Penagalur, Railway Kodur, Rajampet, and Veeraballi have sub-divisional offices to oversee regional operations.
Key responsibilities of the department include managing the leasing of ponds, fish farming activities, and issuing fishing licenses for boats in authorized reservoirs. Ms. Sushmita highlighted the importance of proper licensing, mentioning that Annamayya district oversees two licensed reservoirs and 149 ponds, all requiring permits for fishing operations.
A central focus of the department’s strategy is the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which promotes income-generating activities like fish breeding and seeding in identified ponds and reservoirs. Along with encouraging fish cultivation, the department is actively educating workers about new government schemes and best practices in fisheries management.
To support the local fish trade, the district operates 31 fish shops, and the department has deployed a fleet of 15 two-wheelers, one three-wheeler, and two four-wheelers for efficient fish transport. This initiative has also created additional employment opportunities for drivers and labourers involved in fish farming and distribution.
Ms. Sushmita reiterated the department’s dedication to ensuring that fishing boat owners can easily access government schemes and urged Managing Committee members to regularly attend association meetings for the smooth execution of these programs.
The department’s focus on infrastructure and worker education reflects its commitment to enhancing the fishing community’s well-being in Annamayya district.
