Secy. Fisheries emphasises maintaining Quality & traceability of shrimp products

A recent stakeholder meet was organised by NABARD in Vijayawada on Shrimp Production, Processing, and Export.

The event brought together industry leaders, shrimp farmers, processors, Research Institutes, Fisheries Department and representatives from various banks and focussed on strategizing the future of shrimp farming, processing, and export in India.

Giving the welcome address Mr M R Gopal, Chief General Manager, NABARD, Andhra Pradesh Regional Office, highlighted the significant role of NABARD in facilitating financial support for the shrimp sector. 

He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance shrimp production and export, in line with the Union Budget which stressed the need for financial support for the establishment of Nucleus Breeding Centres for Shrimp Broodstocks.

Mr A Babu, IAS, Secretary (Horticulture, Aquaculture & Fisheries) Government of Andhra Pradesh, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the critical role that Andhra Pradesh plays in the shrimp industry, both domestically and globally. 

He acknowledged the state’s leadership position in shrimp production and highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the sector through various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable aquaculture practices.

The secretary underscored the importance of maintaining the quality and traceability of shrimp products to meet international standards, which is vital for ensuring the continued growth of shrimp exports from India. 

He also spoke about the need for closer collaboration between the government, financial institutions like NABARD, and the shrimp farming community to overcome challenges such as disease management, broodstock availability, and environmental sustainability.

Mr G. S. Rawat, Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of NABARD highlighted the role of NABARD in driving the growth of the sector through targeted financial interventions, capacity building, and infrastructure development.

Mr Dola Shankar, Commissioner, Department of Fisheries, GoAP emphasized the need for better disease management and the improvement of broodstock quality to enhance shrimp production.