Andhra Pradesh Will Not Allow Encroachment of Coastal Waters, Says Chandrababu Naidu

Amaravati, May 2026 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday asserted that the state would not tolerate any encroachment of its territorial waters by fishing boats from neighbouring states, amid reports of alleged trespassing and illegal fishing activities by mechanised boats from Tamil Nadu.

Addressing fishermen during the ‘In the Service of Fishermen’ programme at Thummalapenta village in SPSR Nellore district, the Chief Minister made it clear that the rights and livelihoods of Andhra Pradesh fishermen would be fully protected.

“This coastline belongs to us; the boats are ours, and the fishing rights are ours — there will be no compromise on this matter,” Naidu declared.

“We will not tolerate anyone from neighbouring states encroaching upon our coastal waters. We will safeguard the rights of our fishermen,” he added.

The Chief Minister assured fishermen that the state government would maintain strict surveillance across the coastline and implement strong measures to prevent unauthorised entry of boats from neighbouring states into Andhra Pradesh waters.

Highlighting the government’s welfare initiatives for fishing communities, Naidu noted that the annual fishing ban period from April 15 to June 14 often affects the livelihoods of fishermen. To support them during this period, the state government has provided financial assistance of Rs 20,000 to each eligible fisherman’s family.

“We have deposited a total of Rs 262 crore directly into the bank accounts of 1,30,796 fishermen families,” he said, reaffirming the coalition government’s commitment to the welfare of the fishing community.

Naidu observed that lakhs of fishermen depend on fishing activities along Andhra Pradesh’s long coastline for their livelihood. However, he pointed out that fish production had witnessed a significant decline between 2019 and 2024.

He said that after agriculture and the construction sector, fisheries remain one of the largest sources of employment and livelihood in the state.

“Andhra Pradesh stands at the forefront of fish production in the country. We will continue to stand firmly by our fishermen,” the Chief Minister stated.

Listing several initiatives taken by the government for the fisheries sector, Naidu said the administration is providing a diesel subsidy of Rs 9 per litre for mechanised and motorised fishing boats. In the financial year 2026-27 alone, the government extended diesel subsidies worth Rs 50 crore to fishermen.

He also highlighted the infrastructure projects being implemented for the fisheries sector. According to him, the government is constructing nine fishing harbours and eight fish landing centres at an estimated cost of Rs 3,256 crore.

To improve safety and communication at sea, the state has installed 4,550 transponders on fishing boats and established a modern communication network for fishermen operating in deep waters.

Naidu further announced that the government would sanction 200 mechanised fishing boats for fishermen. While 60 per cent of the cost would be covered as subsidy, the remaining amount would be provided through loans.

Referring to the Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour project, which is being developed at a cost of Rs 288 crore, Naidu urged fishermen not to believe “false propaganda” surrounding the project and said it would significantly strengthen the economic condition of fishing communities.

The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of adopting modern technologies in fisheries. He said the government would encourage seaweed cultivation to generate additional income opportunities for fishermen, fisherwomen, and women associated with DWCRA groups.

“We will encourage fishermen to embrace new technologies alongside traditional fishing practices and bring prosperity into their lives through seaweed cultivation,” he said.

Team Maverick.