Vijayawada, 18 Dec 2024, ANN: Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu has instructed officials to ensure electricity subsidies are extended to all aquaculture farmers, regardless of their zones. He also emphasized completing the distribution of fish seeds across all districts by January 2025, with the active participation of local representatives.

The Minister also urged officials to expedite the long-pending elections for fisheries cooperative societies in Srikakulam and West Godavari districts.

To support fishermen, ₹6.67 crore has been sanctioned for fuel subsidies, with Mr. Atchannaidu directing that these funds be disbursed in advance each year. Additionally, the government is introducing cost-effective marine fuel, projected to save fishermen approximately ₹10 per litre.

The state is also focusing on developing 54 government-owned fish seed ponds to enhance aquaculture output. In a significant initiative, Andhra Pradesh is collaborating with the Kerala government to establish artificial reefs along the coastline. These reefs aim to enrich marine biodiversity and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for the state’s fishing communities.
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