Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has assured aqua farmers of financial support by facilitating bank loans to prevent dependence on private money lenders. He assured farmers who adopt proper aquaculture practices would receive government facilities and support and threatened stern action against offenses.
Talking about the 'Aquaculture Innovation Tech 2.0' conclave organized by the Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST) at Vijayawada, he spoke about the economic contribution by the aqua industry that brings about ₹1.30 lakh crore GVA annually. However, problems remain regarding contaminating drinking water. To this effect, he emphasized the use of green energy, such as aqua farms and industry solar power generation.
Although the election code of conduct can't be violated on some points, Naidu promised that crucial decisions, including the electricity tariff, would soon be taken for the industry. He revealed that loans worth ₹3,000 crore had already been released to aqua farmers, and discussions with the banks would be held to give them more loans.
Compulsory Traceability and Certification in the Aqua Industry
Naidu emphasized that none of the state's aqua products were to be turned down in international markets. As far as quality is concerned, farmers need to be cautious in terms of seeds and feed, and the use of antibiotics should be regulated. He preferred using traceability and certification systems.
Major announcements:
- The registration of all 60,000 aqua farmers for easy monitoring.
- Geotagging completion in 2-3 months, subject to farmer consent.
- Aqualabs is set up to improve product quality.
- Focus on setting up quarantine facilities in Visakhapatnam.
- Proposals to enter the defense sector with aqua products in collaboration with the Defense Ministry.
- Developing market linkages, e.g., local market development.
Food as Medicine: Promoting Well-being through Food
Naidu promoted healthy eating, as he indicated that food itself was medicine and that everyone being in possession of a pharmacy within the kitchen would make them less reliant on doctors. He urged farmers to transform the production of crops in accordance with new food ways and global demand.
GFST Unites Aqua Industry Stakeholders
CM congratulated former CS Thakkar, Kudumbarao, Sanjay Gupta, and Ramraj for the success in organizing the Aqua Conference under GFST, bringing together various stakeholders in the exchange of progress in the industry.
Technology for Boosting Productivity & Reducing Costs
Citing studies, Naidu explained that investment in the aqua industry would decline by 10%, whereas productivity would increase by 20% due to technology transformation. He cited the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in monitoring fish and shrimp health from a distance as an example of shattering myths on the uses of AI in aquaculture.
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