Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, recently visited Kalinga Pattinam in the Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh to delve into the challenges faced by saline water shrimp farmers. During his interaction with local shrimp farmers, a focus on cutting-edge technology, particularly the adoption of a 4-step farming approach with Bio-floc technology, emerged as a key highlight.
Shrimp farmers shared insights into the innovative culture system being employed, which includes fully lined ponds in high bio-secured conditions. This advanced system incorporates features such as auto feeders, central drainage/sludge removal, and IoT-based water parameter monitoring. These technologies collectively enable high-density intensive farming, ultimately boosting productivity from reduced culture areas and higher stocking densities.
Srikakulam District, a major contributor to India’s shrimp exports, stands out for maintaining superior shrimp quality. Its geographical advantage, with the entire culture area situated at an elevated position compared to other regions, has played a pivotal role in this achievement.
Kalinga Pattinam currently hosts a shrimp culture area exceeding 1000 acres, closely linked with numerous feed companies. Positioned near the Srikakulam Sea coast and adhering to stringent biosecurity measures, these farms collectively yield approximately 40,000 tons of shrimp annually, with an average shrimp body weight of 20 grams.
This translates to an estimated annual revenue of nearly Rs 10,000 crore, providing livelihoods for around 600 farmers and employing approximately 5000 individuals directly in various roles on these farms.
Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting and advancing sustainable and technology-driven practices in the fisheries sector, ensuring economic growth and livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.