Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Ram Mohan Naidu said the Central and State governments are working sincerely for the welfare and development of fishermen communities. During his visit to Erramukkam in Srikakulam district yesterday, the Union Minister inaugurated solar-powered street lights installed under the “Matsya Sagaramala” programme with CSR funds from Coal India Limited. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Naidu said he had understood the problems faced by fishermen during the election campaign and has been making efforts to address them. He said the government has decided to install solar lights in fishing villages under the Matsya Sagaramala programme.

As part of the first phase, 1,400 solar lights have been installed in 100 fishing villages across Srikakulam district. He added that more solar lights would be installed in the second phase. The Union Minister also said steps are being taken to improve road connectivity to fishing villages and develop them as tourism destinations. He expressed confidence that the proposed Mulapeta Greenfield Port and Bhogapuram International Airport would create employment opportunities and help North Andhra emerge as a major economic hub. Mr. Naidu further said that after the NDA government came to power in Andhra Pradesh, pensions are being distributed on the first day of every month, bringing happiness to senior citizens, persons with disabilities and widows.