Odisha to Establish 100 Shrimp Hatcheries, Boosting Shrimp Production and Profitability

The Odisha government has announced a transformative initiative to establish 100 shrimp hatcheries across the coastal districts of the state. This ambitious plan aims to address the scarcity of shrimp seed, a critical factor in shrimp production, and pave the way for increased production and profitability for shrimp farmers.

The decision to set up 100 shrimp hatcheries aligns with the Odisha government’s unwavering commitment to promoting aquaculture as a key driver of economic growth and rural development. Shrimp farming holds immense potential for Odisha, given its extensive coastline, favorable climatic conditions, and abundant water resources.

Emphasizing the significance of this initiative, Odisha’s Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister, Pratap Jena, stated, “The establishment of 100 shrimp hatcheries will be a watershed moment for the shrimp aquaculture sector in Odisha. It will ensure a steady supply of quality shrimp seed, leading to increased production, better quality shrimp, and enhanced income for shrimp farmers.”

The scarcity of shrimp seed has long been a persistent challenge for shrimp farmers in Odisha, often hindering productivity and reducing profits. By establishing hatcheries, the government aims to tackle this issue head-on and provide farmers with access to reliable and high-quality shrimp seed.

In a strategic move, the hatcheries will be set up in public-private partnership (PPP) mode, fostering private sector participation and expertise in the aquaculture sector. This approach will leverage the strengths of both the government and the private sector to ensure the success of the initiative.

Further demonstrating its commitment to empowering shrimp farmers, the Odisha government is providing various incentives to promote shrimp farming in the state. These incentives include subsidies for seed, feed, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the government is actively working on improving market linkages for shrimp farmers, connecting them to domestic and international markets.

The establishment of 100 shrimp hatcheries represents a significant step towards realizing the full potential of the shrimp aquaculture sector in Odisha. With increased production, better quality shrimp, and enhanced income for shrimp farmers, this initiative is poised to transform the lives of coastal communities and contribute substantially to the overall economic growth of the state.