Freshwater Prawn Culture Boosts Livelihoods of Fish Farmers in Tripura

Agartala, Jun 04, 2026, By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 4: Freshwater prawn culture introduced under a fisheries livelihood promotion initiative in Tripura has emerged as a promising source of income for fish farming households, demonstrating significant potential for aquaculture diversification and rural economic development.

The initiative, implemented by CML-TATA Trusts with support from ONGC Tripura Power Company Ltd. (OTPC), was launched to encourage small and marginal fish farmers to adopt high-value aquaculture practices alongside traditional fish farming. The programme aimed to improve farm productivity, enhance household income, and strengthen livelihood resilience through scientific freshwater prawn cultivation.

During the financial year 2021-22, a total of 100 fish farmers from Matabari and Kakraban blocks of Gomati district were selected for the programme based on the suitability of their ponds. Participants received extensive training on scientific prawn farming techniques, including pond preparation, stocking density management, feeding practices, shelter installation, disease management, and harvesting methods.

An assessment conducted among 75 participating farmers from villages such as Matabari, Garjeecherra, Chandrapur Colony, Tulamura, Palatana, and Jamjuri revealed encouraging results. The study examined production levels, income generation, survival rates, and operational challenges faced during implementation.

According to the findings, participating households collectively harvested 237 kilograms of freshwater prawns, generating an estimated revenue of ₹3.18 lakh. On average, each farmer earned an additional income of around ₹4,236 during the first production cycle. Project officials noted that actual production and earnings are likely to increase further, as harvesting activities were still underway in several perennial ponds when the assessment was conducted.

Beyond financial benefits, the initiative significantly improved farmers’ technical knowledge and confidence in adopting modern aquaculture practices. It also contributed to household nutritional security by increasing access to protein-rich freshwater prawns.

Despite facing challenges such as severe monsoon floods, reduced prawn survival rates, intrusion of carnivorous fish, and harvesting difficulties, farmers successfully adapted their management practices and continued improving production outcomes.

Experts believe the initiative has established a strong foundation for the expansion of freshwater prawn farming in Tripura. Encouraged by the positive results, many farmers are now planning to scale up production, making the programme a successful model for sustainable aquaculture development, income enhancement, and nutritional security in the state.