Sustainable Aquaculture and Economic Development in Coastal Areas: The Case of Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Aquaculture farming systems are the predominant source in coastal regions of the country. India, which accounts for 7.56% of global production, is the second-largest producer of marine foods. This industry accounts for around 1.24% of India’s Gross Value Added (GVA). Seafood (fish, prawns, etc.) continues to provide a vital source of healthy and nutritious food, revenue, and financial assistance to millions of people throughout the world, particularly in India. The sector employs around 28 million people at the primary level and over 50 million individuals along the value chain. Over the previous 3 years, the yearly average growth rate in this industry has been 7%. Seafood is one of the best alternatives for reducing hunger and nutrient shortage since it is a low-cost, high-protein source. The main difficulties in culture fisheries are low average production because of poor technological adoption, illness prevalence, and a lack of high-quality seed and affordable feed for targeted species. Better governance, aquaculture farming, seafood, policy support, and capacity building are all critical activities for the country’s blue economy ambitions. This diagnostic chapter seeks to comprehend the current level of production and product development, notably in the aquaculture industry in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Shrinkage of the fertile land-based agriculture industry gave up a new avenue for growth in Andhra Pradesh, India. Obviously, coastal zones are the state’s bountiful natural resources. The state of Andhra Pradesh has identified the marine food sector as one of the primary growth sectors of the newly established Andhra Pradesh’s socio-economic development.