Shrimp farmers in Goa are facing tough times due to inadequate support from the state government. The number of shrimp farmers in South Goa has drastically reduced from about 20 a decade ago to just 6 or 7 today, as many have quit the business.
One major issue is the lack of local fish seed. Farmers have to buy fish seed from states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, which increases their costs. Despite the high potential for fish farming in Goa, government promises of support have not materialized.
In 2016, the Goa government issued notifications to promote aquaculture, including mussel culture, oyster farming, ornamental fish, and freshwater aquaculture. However, shrimp farmers say they have seen little real support.
John Fernandes, a shrimp farmer from Varca, stopped shrimp farming due to losses. He blamed the lack of timely government support for his decision. Peter Coutinho from Navelim also shared his frustration, saying that despite many promises, there was no financial help. He completed all necessary formalities only to find that the promised subsidy was withdrawn.
The rising cost of feed and low shrimp prices, due to competition from outsiders benefiting from their own state governments, add to the farmers’ woes. Trevor Fernandes, another prawn farmer, highlighted the slow export market and unviable local rates that force farmers to sell their shrimp at wholesale markets.
Goa shrimp farmers are calling for the government to take their plight seriously and provide the needed support. Without this, many fear the occupation will continue to decline, leaving them dependent on neighbouring states for fish seed and struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
