Andhra looks to shield aqua farmers from US tariff blow, CM Naidu assures action plan soon

Speaking publicly on the issue for the first time since US President Donald Trump announced the tariff hike, Naidu acknowledged the likely financial strain on the state’s aquaculture sector.

“The increase in tariffs in America will burden the aqua farmers in the state,” he said, adding that the government has been providing electricity to aqua farmers at a subsidised rate of 1.50 paise per unit, reported NDTV reported.

Naidu said the matter is under active consideration and discussions with farmers would be held within the next couple of days to draw up a concrete action plan.

“We have taken note of the matter and we will discuss it with farmers in a day or two. Then we will make an action plan,” he said.

The chief minister also announced an increase in financial support to the fishing community.

“Fishermen were given Rs 10,000 earlier. But now we will give Rs 20,000 each. We have given financial aid to 1.30 lakh people under the Matsyakarula Sevalo,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that the welfare of farmers, youth, and small-scale industries remains central to the government’s agenda as India moves towards becoming the third-largest economy.

Addressing a gathering in Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency, Modi underlined the need for economic vigilance amid ongoing global uncertainty.

“There is an atmosphere of global instability. All countries are focusing on their individual interests. India is going to become the third biggest economy in the world and this is why India will have to stay alert as far as its economic interests are concerned,” he said.

Calling for greater reliance on indigenous goods, Modi stressed the importance of embracing “swadeshi” products as a safeguard against external shocks.

He also noted that the Indian economy has remained steady despite international tremors caused by the US decision.

The tariff hike is part of a broader set of economic actions by the US, which also includes penalties on India for continuing its oil trade with Russia.