Aquaculture – Andhra Pradesh Aqua Farmers Face Mounting Challenges Amid Rising Costs
Aquaculture – Andhra Pradesh’s aquaculture industry has come under renewed attention after YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy alleged that the state’s aqua farmers are facing increasing financial pressure due to declining returns and higher production expenses.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy addressed a gathering of aquaculture farmers in Bhimavaram on Wednesday, where he criticized the coalition government over the current condition of the sector. According to him, farmers are finding it difficult to sustain their livelihoods as market prices for aquaculture produce have failed to keep pace with the growing cost of production. He stated that shrimp farmers, in particular, are experiencing severe financial strain because of the sharp increase in feed and seed prices.
Allegations Over Rising Input Costs
During his address, the former Chief Minister claimed that the increase in the prices of essential farming inputs was not occurring naturally. He alleged that groups operating with the support of the ruling establishment were influencing the pricing of feed and seed, making cultivation more expensive for farmers. He also accused the government of not taking timely action to address these concerns or protect the interests of those dependent on the aquaculture industry.
Importance of the Aquaculture Industry
Jagan emphasized that aquaculture plays a significant role in Andhra Pradesh’s rural economy and provides employment opportunities to nearly five lakh people. He said that such a large sector requires effective monitoring and a strong regulatory framework to ensure fair market practices and stable income for farmers. According to him, government intervention is essential to maintain transparency in pricing and support long-term growth in the industry.
Previous Government’s Measures Highlighted
Referring to the initiatives implemented during the previous YSRCP administration, Jagan said several steps had been taken to strengthen the aquaculture ecosystem across the state. He noted that the Andhra Pradesh State Aquaculture Development Authority (APSADA) had been reinforced to improve governance and resolve issues affecting the industry.
He further stated that the earlier government had addressed disputes related to the marketing of feed and seed while ensuring electricity supply to aqua farmers at a subsidized rate of Rs 1.50 per unit. According to him, these measures were introduced to reduce operational costs and improve the financial stability of producers.
Subsidies and Infrastructure Support
The YSRCP leader also highlighted financial assistance provided during his tenure. He said that the previous administration disbursed subsidies worth Rs 3,306 crore over a period of five years and cleared pending dues amounting to Rs 401 crore. In addition, he claimed that efforts were made to stabilize shrimp prices by closely monitoring market movements and responding to fluctuations affecting farmers’ income.
Jagan also pointed to infrastructure improvements introduced during the previous government. He said that 35 integrated aquaculture laboratories were established to enhance quality testing and technical support. He added that fisheries assistants were appointed through the village secretariat system to provide services and guidance to aqua farmers at the local level.
The remarks come as discussions continue over the condition of Andhra Pradesh’s aquaculture sector, with farmers seeking stable prices, affordable inputs, and supportive policies to sustain one of the state’s key agricultural industries.