Shrimp farming in Punjab: A New Way To Increase Farmers’ Income

Shrimp Farming is one of the traditional practices done in various states in India. Through reports, it has been analyzed that Punjab is one of the top producers of shrimp farming. In this article, we have discussed the Benefits, ways to start shrimp farming, and methods adopted.

Shrimp or prawn farming is an aquaculture-based farming practice usually done in marine or freshwater environments. This is done mainly for human consumption. Currently, Punjab is one of the leading states gaining a huge profit from shrimp farming. It is done in several districts in Punjab like Muktsar, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and Faridkot.

In fact, this project was jointly funded by the Centre and State governments. According to reports as of 2022-23 it has been found that southwest Punjab owns a total of 1,212 acres of land for shrimp production. Therefore producing a total of 2,413 tonnes of shrimp.

Top Benefits Of Practising Shrimp Farming

Economic benefits

It creates jobs and supports local economies by providing a market for local farmers and fishermen. Shrimp farms generate a good amount of tax revenue for the government.

Food security:

Shrimp farming can help to improve food security by providing a source of protein that is in high demand worldwide.

Environmental benefits

Shrimp farming can be done in a sustainable way that minimizes environmental impact. For example, shrimp farms can be designed to minimize water use and waste production.

Reduced dependency on wild-caught shrimp

It helps to save the wild shrimp population.

Pond Liners

It helps to prevent water seepage and maintain the quality of water.

Best Practices For Shrimp Farming

External Nursery

This nursery allows shrimp farmers to closely regulate and monitor the offspring and the baby shrimp.

Central Drain Systems

This system is very beneficial in generating a good prawn population. To prevent frequent diseases, and to acquire healthy shrimps, farmers have realized the importance of keeping the surroundings clean and sanitized.

Crab and Bird Nets

The application of Crab and bird nets acts as shields to prevent predatory species from shrimp farms.

Aerators

Aerators help to maintain the oxygen levels in the water and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

How To Start With Easy Method Of Shrimp Farming At An Affordable Rate

Design the shrimp farm – A farm should be designed with a size of 0.4 – 0.5 hectares, and preferably the drainage system should be organized accordingly.
To practice, shrimp farming one should obtain a suitable business license. It should give permissions accordingly to function and operate a freshwater shrimp farm in your state.
Reserve a location to raise your shrimp.
Test the water before adding the shrimp.
Stock high-quality juvenile shrimp.
It is very important to keep the shrimp healthy. Feeding them good quality food will nourish them in a better manner.
Boost its biosecurity to avoid diseases