Goa’s aqua farmers in India, have encountered significant hurdles, leading to a decline in their numbers. What was once a promising industry with around 20 farmers in South Goa alone has now dwindled to just 6 to 7 farmers still actively involved.

Government Support Falls Short

A major concern among shrimp farmers is the lack of substantial government support despite assurances from state authorities. This absence of support is particularly felt in the availability of fish seed within Goa itself. Farmers are forced to turn to neighboring states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu for fish seeds, incurring additional costs that strain their operations.

Despite promises made by the Goa government in 2016 to bolster aquaculture, particularly through various notifications encouraging different forms of farming, shrimp farmers feel left behind. The disconnect between promises and tangible support has exacerbated challenges in the local shrimp market. Outsiders selling shrimp at low rates within Goa further undercut the viability of local farmers.

Calls for Urgent Government Action

The plight of Goa’s shrimp farmers underscores the urgent need for government intervention and genuine support. Farmers emphasize that without meaningful assistance, the already struggling industry faces further decline. They urge the government to prioritize and demonstrate greater commitment to shrimp farming and aquaculture activities.

With the export market sluggish and local rates unviable, many shrimp farmers have been forced to sell their produce at wholesale fish markets, exacerbating financial losses. The consequences are dire, with only a handful of farmers persevering amid dwindling prospects.