Andhra Pradesh Aquaculture Sector Challenges and Government Response

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has reported that approximately 2.16 lakh aquaculture farmers are engaged in aquaculture activities across 5.79 lakh acres under freshwater and brackish water aquaculture in the state, according to data recorded on the e-Fish platform and state government databases. These aqua farmers are currently facing significant difficulties due to a decline in market prices coupled with an increase in the cost of fish feed.

State Government Measures

The Andhra Pradesh government has implemented several measures to address these challenges. The State Fisheries Department is actively coordinating with aqua farmers' associations, value-added enterprises, exporters, and other stakeholders to resolve issues faced by fish and shrimp farmers. Notably, the state government has confirmed that no state-wide crop holiday has been officially implemented. Registered aqua farmers are being provided electricity at a subsidized tariff of ₹1.50 per unit. Through consultations with feed manufacturers, the price of shrimp feed has been reduced by ₹4.00 per kilogram.

Central Government Policy Interventions

The Department of Fisheries, Government of India, in coordination with the Andhra Pradesh government, is undertaking measures to safeguard aqua farmers' interests. Recognizing the importance of improving economic viability in shrimp farming, the central government has implemented significant policy changes. In the Union Budgets 2024-25 and 2025-26, customs duties on 16 key aquaculture inputs were rationalized, with rates reduced from 30% to as low as 0-5%, thereby lowering the cost of essential inputs. Additionally, in September 2025, the Government of India approved the reduction of GST rates from 12-18% to 5% on more than 20 fisheries and aquaculture-related products, including farm equipment, feed ingredients, water conditioners, fishing nets, and value-added seafood products.

Expected Outcomes

These combined measures are expected to reduce production costs, improve the profitability of farmers across various states including Andhra Pradesh, and enhance the competitiveness of India's aquaculture sector. Both central and state governments are promoting value-added enterprises to minimize post-harvest losses and augment the income of fish farmers.