KURNOOL: On Sunday, AP Fisheries Minister Seediri Appalaraju encouraged fishermen from Kurnool and Nandyala districts to make the most of various welfare schemes provided by the state government.
The minister addressed concerns raised by fishermen during a meeting at the state guest house in Kurnool, where the president of the National Fishermen Association and members from the mentioned districts presented proposals aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of fishermen and their families.
The association advocated for the introduction of fisheries courses in universities tailored for traditional fishermen and opportunities for exporting fish to foreign markets. Representatives also requested the inclusion of their caste in the scheduled tribes’ list to access benefits and protections.
Emphasizing the importance of protecting ponds from encroachment for fishing activities, the Gangaputra Welfare Society of Gani urged the allocation of a 240-acre tank constructed in Nandyala district six years ago to the local fishermen’s society. Appalaraju assured that he would bring this matter to the government’s attention.
The meeting was attended by Rajya Sabha member Mopidevi Venkataramana, Panyam MLA Katasani Rambhupal Reddy, Kurnool MLA Dr. Hafeez Khan, and deputy directors of fisheries in Kurnool and Nandyala districts, Shyamalamma and Raghava Reddy.