Hyderabad, Aug 4 (UNI) Telangana Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, Fisheries, and Youth Services & Sports, Vakiti Srihari, on Tuesday said the state government is committed to the welfare of fishermen and the overall development of the fisheries sector by expanding fish farming, strengthening cooperative societies, and improving infrastructure.
Chairing a meeting with presidents and promoters of district fisheries cooperative societies at the Ministers' Quarters, the Minister said the government plans to promote fish farming in all 26,000 tanks and 100 reservoirs across the state while providing all necessary support to fishermen.
He said an action plan is being prepared to provide insurance coverage, mopeds, and retail outlets for fishermen. The Minister also announced that review meetings with district fisheries cooperative society presidents would be held once every three months to address their concerns.
Vakiti Srihari said the government would continue the free fish seed distribution programme and make special efforts to clear pending dues owed to fishermen. He added that the government is also considering the inclusion of fish in the mid-day meal scheme to improve the nutritional intake of school students.
The Minister assured that membership disputes in fisheries cooperative societies would be resolved at the district and village levels. He further said the integrated fish market under construction at Koheda in Hyderabad would enable online sale and distribution of fish once completed.
Highlighting the government's support for the fishing community, Vakiti Srihari said insurance claims worth Rs 1.34 crore have already been cleared for fishermen. He also assured that the protocol-related issues raised by fisheries cooperative societies would be taken up with the government for an appropriate resolution.
Reiterating the government's commitment, the Minister said the welfare and economic empowerment of fishermen remain a top priority for the state.
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