The government has also sanctioned Rs. 6.67 cr for fuel subsidies to fishermen, and future allocations will be made in advance to ensure uninterrupted supply

To boost fish production, the minister directed officials to speed up the distribution of fish seed

KIRANMAI TUTIKA | amaravati

The long felt need to give a fillip to the aquaculture farmers in Andhra Pradesh is all set to be realised as the Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister, Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, has directed officials to expedite plans to provide electricity subsidies to all aquaculture farmers in the state, irrespective of whether they fall under aqua zones.

At a review meeting of the Fisheries and Animal Husbandry departments held in Amaravati on Tuesday, the minister emphasized the need to fulfill the government's election promise of extending electricity subsidies to all aquaculture farmers. To boost fish production, the minister directed officials to speed up the distribution of fish seed. District Joint Collectors have been tasked with overseeing this process, aiming to complete the distribution by the end of January.

The government has also sanctioned Rs. 6.67 crores for fuel subsidies to fishermen, and future allocations will be made in advance to ensure uninterrupted supply. Additionally, the government is introducing marine fuel to reduce fuel costs for fishermen by approximately Rs. 10 per liter. The minister also announced plans to upgrade 54 government-owned fish seed ponds.

To improve the livelihood of coastal communities, the government will collaborate with the Kerala government to establish artificial reefs, similar to those in Kerala. This will help in increasing fish stocks and promoting coastal aquaculture.The minister also instructed officials to prepare a comprehensive plan for developing harbors, jetties, and landing centers along the coast.

In the animal husbandry sector, the minister directed officials to fill all vacant posts and allocate funds for the construction and repair of animal hospitals. To improve livestock quality, the government will promote embryo transfer technology and conduct a statewide vaccination drive for cattle and sheep in January.

The minister highlighted the government's efforts to support livestock farmers through initiatives like the Gokulam cattle shed scheme and the Kisan Credit Card, which offers interest-free loans of up to Rs. 2 lakhs.