MLA opens Fish Andhra unit in Srikakulam

VISAKHAPATNAM: Former deputy chief minister and Narasannapeta MLA Dharmana Krishnadas launched the state's first Fish Andhra unit at Challabandha Addu Road under Polaki mandal in Srikakulam district on Sunday.

Speaking to a small group of locals and fisheries department officials, Krishnadas said it was a good start for fishermen who could provide quality fish to consumers at reasonable prices.

He claimed it was the brainchild of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, who wanted nutritious meals to be made available to people at a low cost through the ‘Fish Andhra Fit Andhra' programme. The first unit was given to Pyla Raju, the wife of Thaviti Naidu. The unit costs ₹20 lakhs, with the stall owners receiving a 60 per cent subsidy. A one-tonne capacity freezer was also provided. DCCB provided the loan. In addition to the former deputy chief minister, DCCB chairman Karimi Rajeswara Rao, the deputy director of fisheries, and other senior department officials were present.

The government would pay a 60 per cent subsidy to SC and women beneficiaries and a 40 per cent subsidy on each unit to beneficiaries from other communities. The government also offers incentives through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.