Aquaculture farmers staged a fiery protest in Bhimavaram, while YSRCP chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy blames the NDA government for pushing the sector into distress through anti‑farmer policies.

Key Takeaways

  • Jagan alleges the aqua syndicate dictates everything from seed to marketing.
  • Farmers are forced to sell shrimp at ₹230/kg against an input cost of ₹275/kg.
  • Weakened APSADA has led to a double rise in feed costs, endangering 1.5 million aquafarmers.

In a rally at Bhimavaram, West Godavari district, YSRCP President Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy lambasted the NDA‑led government for “pushing the aqua sector into distress.” He claimed that a powerful aqua syndicate now controls every stage of the industry – from seed and feed to processing and marketing – leaving small‑scale farmers squeezed out of profit.

Historical Context

Andhra Pradesh has been a national leader in marine and aquaculture production, securing the “Best Marine State” award for FY 2021‑22 and FY 2022‑23. In FY 2023‑24 the state recorded 51 lakh tonnes of aquaculture and marine output, with over five lakh acres under cultivation, making it a cornerstone of India’s seafood supply chain.

Impact of Government Policies

According to Jagan, the state spent ₹3,306 crore on power subsidies between 2019‑24, yet the current administration has stalled applications of nearly 12,000 aquafarmers for new electricity connections. Moreover, the government allegedly supplies only single‑phase power to farms that require three‑phase, and has weakened the Andhra Pradesh State Aquaculture Development Authority (APSADA), allowing feed prices to double twice in four months without farmer consent.

Farmers’ Direct Action

During the rally, aquafarmers dumped live shrimp on the road and set them ablaze to dramatize the soaring feed costs and declining shrimp prices. They highlighted that shrimp is now being bought at a maximum of ₹230 per kilogram, while the total production cost stands at ₹275 per kilogram – 60 % of which is feed.

Unfulfilled Promises

Jagan questioned the status of the “Super‑Six” manifesto promises: the creation of 5,000 tonnes of cold‑storage facilities, power subsidies for farms outside the designated aqua zone, and aerator subsidies. He also pointed out the closure of the State Aquaculture University at Narsapuram, a move he described as a betrayal of the sector’s stakeholders.

Future Outlook

The chief warned that the crisis threatens the livelihoods of roughly 15 lakh people and could erode Andhra Pradesh’s hard‑won reputation as a marine powerhouse. He pledged continued agitation until the promised subsidies and infrastructure are delivered, stressing that the sector’s revival is essential for both state and national food security.