NFDB Regional Office Proposed in Visakhapatnam
The Union government has proposed setting up a regional office of the National Fisheries Development Board National Fisheries Development Board in Visakhapatnam, marking a key step to strengthen the fisheries ecosystem in North Andhra.
Speaking at the National Workshop on Seafood Exports, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh said, “We need a coordinated approach to build a globally competitive Indian seafood brand based on quality, sustainability and traceability.”
He noted that India’s fisheries production and exports have “more than doubled in the last decade,” reaching 197 lakh tonnes and over ₹73,000 crore respectively. He added that strengthening export infrastructure, including quarantine and allied facilities in Visakhapatnam, remains a priority.
The NFDB, headquartered in Hyderabad, is an autonomous body under the Union Ministry that provides structured support to the fisheries sector through funding guidelines, subsidies and grants. It also promotes modernisation of production and processing using research and biotechnology to improve productivity.
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu said, “This initiative aligns with our goal of making Andhra Pradesh the top fish-producing state in the country.”
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has assured that land for the proposed regional office will be allotted within 15 days, enabling swift execution of the project.
Officials said the move will help accelerate key infrastructure projects, including the ₹72.42 crore modernisation of the Kakinada Fishing Harbour, and improve coordination between Central and State agencies.
The proposed office is expected to improve access to Central schemes, streamline approvals, and strengthen monitoring of fisheries infrastructure projects.
With India targeting $30 billion in seafood exports, officials said the initiative will play a crucial role in connecting production, processing, and exports, while strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s position as a key seafood hub.