Shrimp farmers in Andhra Pradesh have expressed serious concerns about the potential risks associated with lifting import restrictions on specific pathogen-free broodstock from Southeast Asia. They are urging the government to continue enforcing these restrictions to safeguard the local shrimp farming industry from possible disease outbreaks.
Key Concerns of Andhra Pradesh Shrimp Farmers
The farmers emphasize that:
- Importing broodstock from regions with different disease profiles may introduce new pathogens into their farms.
- Maintaining biosecurity measures is crucial to prevent outbreaks that could devastate shrimp production.
- The local industry’s economic stability depends on stringent health certifications and import controls.
Appeal to Government Authorities
Farmers are calling upon the state government to:
- Continue the ban on broodstock imports from Southeast Asia until comprehensive risk assessments are conducted.
- Strengthen disease monitoring and management protocols within shrimp farms.
- Support local shrimp breeding programs to reduce dependence on imported stock.
In conclusion, the shrimp farmers stress that protecting the industry from disease threats through import restrictions is essential for sustainable growth and food security in Andhra Pradesh.
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