Nellore, May 19: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday announced a series of welfare and infrastructure measures for fishermen communities, including financial assistance during the annual fishing ban period, subsidised mechanised boats and promotion of seaweed cultivation for coastal women.

Participating in the “Matsyakarula Sevalo” programme at Tummalapenta village in Kavali constituency of Nellore district, the Chief Minister released ₹261.50 crore as financial assistance to 1,30,796 fishermen families. Under the scheme, each eligible family received ₹20,000 directly into their bank accounts.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Naidu said the government was committed to safeguarding the livelihood interests of fishermen and ensuring their participation in coastal development. He asserted that the State would strengthen coastal surveillance and prevent intrusion by fishing boats from neighbouring States into Andhra Pradesh waters.

The Chief Minister announced that 200 mechanised fishing boats would be sanctioned with 60% subsidy support, while the remaining cost would be covered through bank loans. He said the government was already extending diesel subsidy assistance to mechanised and motorised fishing boats.

Highlighting infrastructure development in the fisheries sector, Mr. Naidu said the State was constructing nine fishing harbours and eight fish landing centres with an estimated investment of ₹3,256 crore.

He also announced a seaweed cultivation initiative aimed at generating additional livelihood opportunities for fisherwomen and women self-help groups. A training programme for seaweed cultivation was launched with support from Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute.

The Chief Minister said fishermen would continue to enjoy exclusive rights for fish cultivation and marketing in reservoirs and inland water bodies across the State. He also assured support for improving market access for fisheries products.

During his visit, Mr. Naidu inspected coastal surveillance systems, including drone-based monitoring and GPS-enabled tracking systems intended to improve fishermen safety and curb illegal intrusion into Andhra Pradesh coastal waters.

He further announced infrastructure works including road connectivity for 25 fishermen villages in the region and desilting works for the North Buckingham Canal.

Ministers Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Atchannaidu and Farooq, along with other public representatives, participated in the programme.