MARGAO: Goa’s aqua farmers, primarily those involved in shrimp farming, have been left in a difficult situation as the concerned authorities of the State government have been unable to provide them with the much-needed support.
The number of shrimp farmers is dwindling with each passing day, as they encounter increasingly challenging circumstances that hinder their ability to sustain their occupation.
As per the information provided by the section of shrimp farmers, there were approximately 20 farmers involved in the business in South Goa. However, over the last decade, this number has dwindled significantly, with only 6 to 7 farmers remaining, as others have ceased shrimp farming altogether.
Among the few reasons cited by the shrimp farmers, a prominent one is the lack of support from the government despite assurances, despite the abundant potential for fish farming in Goa. These Goan farmers are struggling to cope with the non-availability of fish seed in Goa, while shrimp is being sold in the Goan market by outsiders at very low rates. Currently, farmers are compelled to rely on other coastal states such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu for fish seeds, leading to exorbitant costs.
It may be recalled that in 2016, the Goa government, in an effort to promote aquaculture in the state, issued three notifications through the Department of Fisheries. These notifications pertained to mussel culture and oyster farming, ornamental fish, and freshwater aquaculture farming.
Speaking to O Heraldo, John Fernandes, a shrimp farmer from Varca, revealed that he has ceased shrimp farming due to incurring losses, which he attributes to the lack of timely support from the government.
There is minimal assistance to encourage farmers engaged in shrimp farming. After enduring several years of hardship to sustain in the market, a decision was made to completely cease operations, he stated.
Peter Coutinho, another shrimp farmer from Navelim, expressed his
frustration and alleged that all the promises made by the government exist only on paper.
“I had taken all measures to push myself in this occupation after assurances by the concerned authorities, however, in the end, there was no financial support. They had promised lots of things. After completing all the formalities, including registrations and awaiting permission, I was informed that the subsidy had been withdrawn,” he stated.
He further informed that the cost of feed is increasing regularly, while shrimps are being sold at very low rates in the Goan market by outsiders who are
fortunate to receive numerous benefits from their own government.
There is absolutely no support from the government in the occupation of shrimp farming in Goa, he further claimed.
Trevor Fernandes, another prawn farmer, emphasized the need for the government to demonstrate greater seriousness towards shrimp farming or aqua farming activities.
The sluggishness of the export market and the lack of viable rates, which compel farmers to dispose of shrimp production at the wholesale fish market, he informed.
He further informed that there are hardly a few left in the occupation due to the losses they suffered, and they have to completely depend on neighbouring states for fish seeds.
