Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Advocates for Aqua Sector Growth
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Synopsis
On Feb 18, Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu highlighted the importance of transforming aquaculture into a key growth engine for the state, emphasizing the potential for significant advancements through technology and organic practices.
Key Takeaways
- Transforming aquaculture into a financial growth driver.
- Potential 30% growth rate through technology.
- Expansion of aquaculture from 4 lakh to 10 lakh acres.
- Importance of pollution-free practices.
- Increased revenue through value-added products.
Amaravati, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, emphasized the need for transforming aquaculture into a significant growth driver for the state. Speaking at the Aquatech-2.0 conclave, organized by the Global Forum for Sustainable Transformation (GFST), a non-profit entity, the Chief Minister conveyed his optimism that the aqua sector could indeed bolster the state’s financial standing.
He asserted that achieving a 30 percent growth rate in this domain is feasible by leveraging technology and embracing modern practices.
Currently, aquaculture spans approximately four lakh acres, and he urged for an expansion to 10 lakh acres by 2029-30, while highlighting the necessity for pollution-free aquaculture.
Naidu expressed that adopting organic methods would create significant global demand for aqua products, noting the success of organic farming. He advocated for revolutionary changes in aquaculture feed.
He pointed out that farmers could enhance their income through value addition of their products.
Addressing the critical issue of pollution in aquaculture, he mentioned that there are numerous solutions available and stressed that farmers and stakeholders must adhere to guidelines and register their aquaculture activities.
The three-day conclave, which concluded on Tuesday, thoroughly examined the transformations in the sector, available opportunities, challenges faced, and policies in aquaculture. Participants concentrated on educating farmers about utilizing technology for improved outcomes.
With a keen interest in the aqua sector, the Chief Minister noted that the state is exceptionally conducive for aquaculture, which served as a primary revenue source between 2014 and 2019. He also observed that despite lower aqua production in countries like Vietnam, those nations have surpassed in overall valuation.
He emphasized the importance of promoting technology and suggested that Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be extensively used in aquaculture to minimize costs and enhance quality. AI can help predict potential diseases and their prevention.
Finally, he remarked that as consumer food preferences evolve, farmers must adapt to satisfy the increasing demand, asserting that livestock plays a vital role in the economic activities of everyday people.
