Kept Our Promise Despite Financial Constraints – Pawan Kalyan

Despite financial challenges, the coalition government has fulfilled its promise to fishermen by releasing financial assistance for the second consecutive year during the fishing ban period. This reflects the government’s strong commitment to fishermen welfare. Under the “Matsyakara Sevalo” scheme, ₹20,000 is being directly credited to the bank accounts of each eligible fisherman’s family. While the previous government provided only ₹10,000, the current administration has doubled the amount. Around 1.30 lakh fishermen across the state are benefiting from this initiative, with a total allocation of ₹262 crore. In Kakinada district alone, ₹49.86 crore has been distributed to 24,930 beneficiaries, and ₹13.79 crore to 6,897 beneficiaries in Pithapuram constituency.

The government is also taking significant steps to reduce migration among fishermen by strengthening coastal livelihoods. Several welfare schemes are being implemented across 23 landing centers and 51 fishing villages along the 119-km coastline in Kakinada district. A subsidy of ₹8.23 crore has been provided on diesel for 4,578 boats, while ₹1.13 crore has been allocated for purchasing engines, nets, boats, and vehicles under PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and DRDA support. A community hall is being constructed at Konapapapeta with ₹2 crore. Additionally, transponders are being distributed free of cost for fishermen safety, artificial reefs are being set up to enhance marine biodiversity, and TED devices are being provided to protect sea turtles. Under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the government continues to prioritize welfare schemes and create better livelihood opportunities in coastal regions.