Amaravati, June 19 : In a significant relief for Andhra Pradesh’s aquaculture community, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has secured a ₹4 per kilogram reduction in aqua feed prices following extensive discussions with farmers, feed manufacturers, and government officials. The move is expected to ease financial pressure on fish and shrimp farmers while strengthening one of the state’s most important export oriented sectors.
Recognising the need for a long-term framework to address recurring concerns over feed costs, the Chief Minister announced the formation of a dedicated committee comprising farmer representatives, industry stakeholders, and officials. The panel has been tasked with recommending a transparent mechanism for pricing regulation, addressing production-related issues, and proposing measures to tackle environmental challenges linked to aquaculture activities. The committee is expected to submit its recommendations within 20 days.
During the interaction, farmers highlighted the sharp rise in feed prices over recent years. According to industry representatives, feed rates increased multiple times between 2019 and 2024, placing a heavy burden on aquaculture operators. Farmer groups expressed appreciation for the latest intervention, noting that the reduction would provide immediate financial relief at a time when operational expenses remain high.
The farming community also acknowledged several government initiatives aimed at supporting aquaculture. They credited the administration for extending subsidised electricity to the sector and for creating a favourable environment that has helped aquaculture expand beyond the traditional Godavari region to several coastal districts across Andhra Pradesh.
Apart from pricing concerns, farmers urged the government to introduce broader insurance coverage for shrimp ponds and strengthen support for nursery pond development. They also sought relaxation in certain subsidy-linked empanelment requirements and requested uninterrupted water availability for aquaculture operations, which remains critical for maintaining productivity and crop health.
Representatives from feed manufacturing companies outlined the challenges confronting the industry. They explained that rising costs of key raw materials, particularly soybean and fishmeal, have significantly impacted production expenses. Industry leaders pointed out that restrictions on imports of lower-cost soybean supplies have compelled manufacturers to rely on domestic procurement, where prices are substantially higher.
According to feed producers, escalating input costs would have justified a much steeper increase in feed prices. However, companies stated that they had attempted to balance commercial realities with the interests of farmers by limiting the extent of the hike. They maintained that sustaining production while keeping feed affordable remains a complex challenge requiring coordinated policy support.
Responding to the concerns raised during the meeting, Naidu assured stakeholders that adequate water supply would be maintained for aquaculture activities across the state. He described the sector as a crucial source of employment and income for lakhs of families and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding its long-term growth.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the scale of support already provided to the industry, noting that electricity subsidies worth ₹1,543 crore had been extended to aquaculture operators during the past two years. He said the government remains focused on ensuring that both farmers and industry participants can operate in a stable and sustainable business environment.
Calling for collective responsibility, Naidu urged farmers, industry leaders, and officials to work together in identifying practical solutions that address cost pressures while ensuring profitability across the value chain. He encouraged farmer associations to hold regular consultations and play an active role in resolving sector specific challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
The Chief Minister further advised producers to adopt measures that can lower production expenses and improve efficiency. He stressed that reducing operational costs would help strengthen competitiveness in global markets and enhance returns for farmers.
On the export front, Naidu pointed to efforts aimed at diversifying overseas markets for aquaculture products. He said expanding access to alternative destinations has helped reduce dependence on specific regions and created new opportunities for exporters despite restrictions and changing trade conditions in some international markets.
At the same time, he warned stakeholders about the importance of maintaining strict quality standards. Referring to recent export related concerns involving agricultural products, the Chief Minister emphasised that compliance with international regulations and residue norms is essential for protecting Andhra Pradesh’s reputation in global markets.
Industry observers believe the latest decision could strengthen confidence among aquaculture producers while laying the foundation for broader reforms in the sector. The newly announced committee is expected to play a key role in shaping future policy measures aimed at balancing the interests of farmers and manufacturers.
The meeting was attended by Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu, Andhra Pradesh Aquaculture Development Authority Chairman A. Venkataramana Reddy, senior government officials, aquaculture farmers, and representatives from major feed manufacturing companies.
With the announcement of the Aqua Feed Price Cut and the establishment of a stakeholder-driven committee, the state government has signalled its intent to pursue a balanced approach that promotes industry growth, farmer welfare, and long-term sustainability in Andhra Pradesh’s thriving aquaculture sector.