Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to prepare a comprehensive vision plan for the development of Andhra Pradesh's coastline, with a focus on transforming the coastal belt into a major hub for economic activity. During a review meeting held at the camp office with experts and senior officials, Naidu stressed the need for a detailed study on development projects, investments, employment opportunities, and benefits for fishermen across the state's nearly 1,000-km-long coastline.
Blue Economy and Marine Resources
The chief minister observed that the global focus is increasingly shifting towards the blue economy and marine-based economic systems. He said the state has immense potential to harness marine resources for large-scale economic growth and sustainable development. Highlighting the state's achievements in aquaculture, Naidu said Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the leading state in shrimp and fish cultivation as well as exports. He underlined the need to promote value addition in the aquaculture sector to improve revenues and create more employment opportunities.
Addressing Environmental Challenges
At the same time, Naidu noted that aquaculture waste was becoming a source of pollution and posing environmental challenges. He instructed officials to conduct a comprehensive study to address these issues while ensuring the protection of marine biodiversity. Naidu also stressed the importance of tapping rare earth minerals available in coastal and marine regions. He said special attention should be paid to safeguarding and effectively utilising such valuable resources.
Coastal Protection and Disaster Resilience
The chief minister emphasised the need for stronger coastal protection measures to prevent erosion and minimise the impact of natural disasters such as cyclones. He suggested creating a three-layer natural protective shield along the coastline through mangrove plantations and palm trees to improve resilience against extreme weather events. He further directed officials to promote eco-friendly development policies while transforming coastal regions into centres for tourism and economic activity.
Exploring New Opportunities
The chief minister also asked officials to explore opportunities in seaweed cultivation and marketing. Agriculture special chief secretary B Rajasekhar, fisheries commissioner Ram Sankar Naik, Rythu Sadhikara Samstha vice-chairman Vijay Kumar, representatives of marine diversity organisations, and other officials attended the meeting.
