Empowered Committee Reshapes Aquaculture Landscape in Andhra Pradesh

In a significant development, the Empowered Committee in Andhra Pradesh, led by Mines and Geology Minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, has successfully addressed challenges faced by aqua farmers. The committee, formed by the State government, exerted control over aqua feed and seed prices, providing substantial relief to farmers who had previously suffered losses due to the absence of a regulatory mechanism.

The committee members, including ministers Botcha Satyanarayana and Seediri Appalaraju, highlighted that the aqua sector, spanning 4.65 lakh acres, faced hardships stemming from fluctuations in the international market. However, proactive measures taken by the empowered committee, such as controlling prices six times, have significantly uplifted the sector.

A key initiative by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy involved conducting an e-fish survey, identifying 46,433 aqua electricity connections eligible for subsidies. An additional 4,230 connections received approval based on farmer applications, with power subsidies set to commence from November 1.

The committee, keen on securing the interests of aqua farmers, emphasized that a fixed price of Rs 240 per kilogram for 100 count prawns should be adhered to by merchants, preventing transactions below the prescribed amount.

With the aquaculture landscape undergoing positive transformations, the committee’s efforts underscore a commitment to sustainable growth and support for farmers in Andhra Pradesh.