Organic prawn rearing - a farmers' experience

Kuttanad in Kerala, a unique man-made wetland ecosystem, has plenty of water and a fertile landscape. The region is an ideal place for paddy cultivation. However, the scenario has changed now. High input costs, shortage of labour and non-remunerative price for the produce are great challenges that paddy farmers of the region face.

When farmers were desperately looking for a low cost alternative, Mr. Joseph Kora, an organic paddy farmer took the lead in growing and harvesting organic prawns in his four hectare field.

Change for the better

The Marine Products Export Developmental Authority (MPEDA) and other developmental agencies put forward to him the idea of organic aquaculture with scampi and he decided to try it.  About 11 lakh scampi seeds were raised in his four hectares. Support was extended by officials in arranging seeds, feeds, advice and personal visits. After about 7 months, about 1,800 kg of scampi each weighing about 30 gm were harvested from his four hectares.

For more information contact
Mr. Joseph Kora,
Karyvelithara, Ramankary P.O., 689-595,
Kuttanad, Allapey,
Phone: 0477-2707375, Mobile: 9495240886

Mr. R. Hali,
Phone: 04070-2622453, Mobile:9947460075.

Source : The Hindu, dtd 8th  January 2009