MUMBAI, 18 March 2024: Setting up a shrimp farm in Maharashtra involves several steps. First, you need to select a suitable site with access to brackish water. Then, construct ponds suitable for shrimp farming. 

Shrimp farming involves several steps

• Site Selection: Choose a suitable site for your shrimp farm. The site should have access to brackish water and be suitable for constructing ponds.
• Pond Construction: Construct ponds for shrimp farming. The soil’s pH should be between 7 and 81.
• Seed Selection and Stocking: Select high-quality shrimp seeds for farming.
• Feed Management: Provide appropriate feed to the shrimps.
• Water Quality Management: Maintain the quality of water in the ponds.

The cost of setting up a shrimp farm can range from INR 2.47 lakh per hectare to INR 15 lakh for a small-scale shrimp processing plant. The total cost can vary depending on the size and scope of production.

Maharashtra State Policies

The Maharashtra state has about 52,001 ha of potential brackish water area all along its coastline and adjacent creeks. Out of this area, 10,400 ha is reported to be suitable for shrimp farming. The state government provides financial assistance for various activities like the construction of ponds, cages, hatcheries, and nurseries, and for the installation of aeration systems and other equipment.

The state government also has a scheme for the distribution of government brackish water land for shrimp culture. The government brackish water land is allotted for brackish water fish or shrimp culture on a lease for 30 years.

Central Government Policies

The central government has implemented the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to bring about ecologically healthy, economically viable, and socially inclusive development of the Fisheries sector of India. The PMMSY aims to enhance fish production and productivity, modernize and strengthen the value chain, double fishers and fish farmers’ incomes, and generate meaningful employment.

The central government is also planning to reintroduce the shrimp crop insurance scheme to support coastal shrimp farmers.

Challenges

Shrimp farmers in Maharashtra face several challenges, including less extension and technical support, non-availability of crop insurance, and lack of remedial measures for disease prevention during culture operation.

Benefits

Shrimp farming can be a profitable business, with potential earnings of up to INR 4 lakh to INR 5 lakh. It can also create employment opportunities in rural areas.

Please note that this is a high-level overview and you should consult with local authorities and experts for detailed information and guidance. It’s also important to stay updated with the latest policies and regulations as they may change over time.