Andhra Pradesh is set to transform its aquaculture industry, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announcing plans to expand farming areas to 1 million acres by 2030. This initiative aims to boost the state’s economy, leveraging technology and sustainable practices to achieve a steady 30% growth rate in the sector.
Aqua Tech 2.0 Conclave Highlights
Speaking at the Aqua Tech 2.0 Conclave, Naidu emphasized that aquaculture should act as a growth engine for Andhra Pradesh. He highlighted the success of natural farming in agriculture and advocated for its implementation in aquaculture, ensuring higher global demand for the state’s seafood exports.
The Role of Technology in Aquaculture
Naidu stressed the importance of technology-driven solutions to improve productivity and reduce costs. He urged farmers to adopt AI-based monitoring systems, which can predict disease outbreaks and optimize farming conditions. The integration of advanced aqua feed and value-added processing will also play a crucial role in maximizing farmers’ income.
Environmental Sustainability & Pollution Control
While expanding aquaculture, the government is committed to environmental sustainability. Naidu urged farmers to adopt pollution-free practices, ensuring that growth does not come at the cost of ecological damage. He also mandated that all aqua farming activities must be registered, warning that unregulated practices would face strict enforcement.
Economic Impact & Global Competitiveness
Between 2014 and 2019, aquaculture contributed 8.8% to the state’s Gross Value Added (GVA). Despite Andhra Pradesh’s high production levels, countries like Vietnam lead in valuation due to their focus on processing and exports. To compete globally, Naidu emphasized the need for value addition in seafood exports.
Challenges & Future Prospects
The industry faces challenges such as high production costs, market fluctuations, and disease outbreaks. However, Naidu remains optimistic that strategic investments and policy reforms will help Andhra Pradesh maintain its leadership in aquaculture.
Conclusion
With a clear roadmap for expansion, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a global aquaculture hub. By combining technology, sustainability, and value-added processing, the state aims to strengthen its seafood exports and create new economic opportunities for farmers.