Promoting Natural Pearl Farming in India
The Indian government is making significant strides in promoting natural pearl farming. The Department of Fisheries, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, has launched various initiatives to support this industry. Collaborating with state governments, research institutes, and other agencies, the department aims to enhance pearl production and improve the livelihoods of farmers involved in this sector. This article explores the key initiatives taken by the government, the current state of pearl farming in India, and the training programs available for farmers.
Government Initiatives to Boost Pearl Farming
The Department of Fisheries has implemented several initiatives to promote natural pearl farming across India. One of the major steps is the approval of 2,307 bivalve cultivation units, which include mussels, clams, and pearls, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). This initiative has a total investment of ₹461 lakh, benefiting various states and Union Territories.
Additionally, the department supports pearl farmers by showcasing the economic importance of natural pearl farming at both national and international forums. They have also circulated a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for developing fisheries and aquaculture clusters, including a specific focus on pearl farming.
A notable achievement is the establishment of the first pearl farming cluster in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, in collaboration with the state government. This initiative aims to enhance the natural population of marine pearl oysters. The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has played a crucial role by ranching 1.65 crore hatchery-produced seeds along the Tamil Nadu coast, further supporting the growth of the pearl farming industry.
Current State of Pearl Production in India
Pearl culture practices are currently being carried out in several states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar, Odisha, Kerala, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Goa, and Tripura. However, the production data for natural pearls is not consistently reported by state governments. According to the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), approximately 1.02 lakh pearls have been produced from Hazaribagh District in Jharkhand alone.
To strengthen market linkages for natural pearls, the Department of Fisheries has conducted multiple meetings with state governments and stakeholders. These discussions aim to create a more robust market for pearl farmers, ensuring they receive fair prices for their products. The lack of comprehensive data on pearl production remains a challenge, but the government’s efforts are paving the way for better tracking and reporting in the future.
Training and Support for Pearl Farmers
The Department of Fisheries has partnered with various Fisheries Institutes of ICAR to provide research and technical support for pearl cluster development. The ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneshwar has conducted 15 training programs over the past five years. These programs have educated over 1,500 participants on different aspects of freshwater pearl farming in collaboration with state fisheries departments.
Similarly, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Kochi has offered training on marine pearl farming to more than 400 participants in Kerala. These training sessions are conducted in regional languages, making them accessible to local farmers. The focus on education and skill development is crucial for enhancing the capabilities of pearl farmers and ensuring the sustainability of the industry.
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