In a strategic move mirroring neighbouring Andhra Pradesh’s success, the Telangana government has launched a visionary initiative – the establishment of ‘Aqua Hubs.’ Aimed at meeting the escalating demand for seafood, including fish, shrimps, lobsters, and prawns, the state is actively scouting suitable locations along the banks of the Krishna and Godavari rivers for aquaculture promotion.
Identifying the Mid Manair reservoir as a potential site for the inaugural Aqua Hub, officials from the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries department highlighted the positive outcomes of the state’s ‘Aqua Policy.’ The government’s efforts to boost aquaculture, particularly in shrimp and fish production, have yielded significant results in recent years.
Official data underscores this success, revealing a twofold increase in prawn production within eight years. From 6,500 tonnes in 2014-15, prawn production surged to an impressive 13,800 tonnes in 2021-2022. Innovative natural techniques, coupled with water resources from canals and reservoirs linked to projects like the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project, have transformed local reservoirs into thriving centres for aqua production.
Furthermore, fish production in Telangana has risen substantially, reaching 3.76 lakh tonnes in 2022 compared to 2.6 lakh tonnes in 2015. The state’s water bodies now effectively meet domestic demand for fish.
Government-conducted studies indicate a significant opportunity to position Telangana as an ‘Aqua Hub,’ drawing inspiration from the success of Andhra Pradesh. The state possesses the necessary resources, including the Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project and expansive reservoirs like Mallanna Sagar, Kondapochamma Sagar, as well as existing dams such as Mid Manair, Nizam Sagar, and Sriram Sagar.
Abundant land banks along the water bodies provide an ideal setting for the establishment of Aqua Hubs, with the government encouraging local entrepreneurs to participate in food processing centres within these hubs. A major announcement about the formal establishment of Aqua Hubs in the state is expected from the government soon.
Source: Hans India
