AP CM Naidu announces major welfare push for fishermen, releases Rs 261 Cr aid
Nellore, May 19 (TNT): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday announced a series of welfare and infrastructure initiatives for fishermen communities while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the fisheries sector and safeguarding coastal resources.
Participating in the ‘Matsyakarula Sevalo’ programme held at Tummalapenta village in Kavali constituency of Nellore district, the Chief Minister released ₹261.50 crore as financial assistance to 1,30,796 fishermen families during the annual fishing ban period.
Under the scheme, each eligible fishermen family received ₹20,000 directly into their bank accounts.
Addressing the gathering, Naidu said fishermen should become equal stakeholders in coastal development and assured that the government would protect their livelihood interests.
“This coast is ours, these boats are ours and this marine wealth is ours. We will strengthen surveillance along the coastline and prevent intrusion by boats from neighbouring states,” he said.
The Chief Minister announced that the government would sanction 200 mechanised fishing boats with a 60 per cent subsidy, while the remaining amount would be provided through bank loans.
He said the state government was already extending diesel subsidy support to mechanised and motorised boats and was constructing nine fishing harbours and eight fish landing centres across Andhra Pradesh with an investment of ₹3,256 crore.
Highlighting additional livelihood opportunities, Chandrababu Naidu said the government would promote seaweed cultivation among fisherwomen and DWCRA women groups to enhance incomes.
He also launched a seaweed cultivation training programme for coastal women with support from the Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI).
The Chief Minister further stated that fishermen would continue to receive exclusive rights for fish cultivation and marketing in reservoirs and inland water bodies across the state.
“I will personally act like a marketing manager for fisheries products and help create better market opportunities,” he remarked.
During the visit, Naidu also inspected coastal surveillance systems, including drone monitoring and GPS-based tracking mechanisms aimed at preventing illegal intrusion into Andhra Pradesh waters and improving safety for fishermen at sea.
He further announced infrastructure projects including road connectivity for 25 fishermen villages in the region and desilting works for the North Buckingham Canal.
Ministers Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Atchannaidu and Farooq, along with other public representatives, participated in the programme.
TNT KM
