Muzaffarpur: In a bid to diversify farmers’ income and promote sustainable use of water resources, the Muzaffarpur District Fisheries Department has launched a new initiative to encourage shrimp and pearl farming alongside traditional fish cultivation.
In the first phase of the programme, 11 farmers have been selected. Of them, seven farmers will undertake shrimp farming, while four will begin pearl cultivation. The department will provide technical training and offer up to 60% financial assistance under the scheme.
Seven Farmers Selected for Shrimp Farming
District Fisheries Officer Randhir Kumar said seven farmers have been chosen for shrimp farming during the initial phase.
According to the department, a shrimp farming unit requires around 11 kathas of land and involves an estimated investment of ₹1.10 lakh. The government will provide a 60% subsidy, while the remaining cost will be borne by the beneficiary farmers.
Four Farmers to Begin Pearl Cultivation
Four farmers have been selected to establish pearl farming units in ponds. Each unit is estimated to cost around ₹2.22 lakh, with the government extending a 60% subsidy under the scheme.
The project will use scientific methods to cultivate oysters in ponds, allowing pearls to develop naturally. Officials believe pearl farming has the potential to generate significantly higher returns than conventional fish farming.
Expert Training Before Production
Before beginning commercial production, all selected farmers will undergo specialised training conducted by experts from Vaishali district. The training sessions will be organised at the District Fisheries Office.
Participants will be introduced to modern techniques in shrimp and pearl farming to help ensure higher productivity and better-quality output.
Focus on Scientific Farming and Market Access
The training programme will cover key aspects of aquaculture, including pond management, water quality maintenance, disease control, productivity enhancement, and post-harvest marketing.
The Fisheries Department said the initiative aims to equip farmers with advanced aquaculture practices and create new livelihood opportunities in the fisheries sector. If the pilot project proves successful, the department plans to expand shrimp and pearl farming across Muzaffarpur district on a larger scale.
