Sustainable Feed Approaches in Indian Sustainable Shrimp Farming

Introduction

India’s shrimp industry is increasingly embracing sustainable aquaculture methods, especially integrated mangrove-shrimp (IMS) systems, that simultaneously restore critical coastal ecosystems and support aquaculture productivity. Combined with eco-friendly feed formulations and improvements in disease-resistant broodstock, these practices are enhancing resilience and environmental stewardship across India’s shrimp farming sector.

The shift is also being supported by growing consumer and buyer demand for responsibly sourced seafood, pushing exporters and producers to adopt certifications such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP). These programs encourage traceability, welfare standards, and reduced environmental impact, creating new market opportunities, especially in the United States and European Union.

Meanwhile, government agencies and local cooperatives are introducing training programs, subsidies, and demonstration projects to accelerate the adoption of sustainable methods, particularly in high-density farming states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. In July 2024, The Union Budget 2024 launched key support for shrimp farming throughout coastal Andhra Pradesh, including the establishment of nucleus breeding centers, financial backing via NABARD, and a reduction of customs duty on shrimp to 5%.

These collaborations are helping small and mid-sized farms transition away from intensive systems prone to disease outbreaks and ecological degradation. As part of this transformation, integrated water management, mangrove buffer zones, and low-input farming techniques are being promoted to improve water quality and reduce effluent discharge. In parallel, research institutions like ICAR-CIBA and NGOs are facilitating access to improved broodstock, disease diagnostics, and adaptive farm designs tailored to local ecological conditions.

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India’s Shrimp Sector Embraces Climate-Smart Aquaculture Through Integrated Mangrove Systems and Sustainable Practices

IMS systems gaining momentum as a model that restores fragile coastal ecosystems while supporting long-term productivity. In January 2025, Kerala disclosed plans of a mangrove restoration project along its coast to enhance coastal protection, biodiversity, and support sustainable shrimp farming. These systems allow mangrove regeneration alongside shrimp cultivation, offering natural filtration, coastal protection, and habitat enrichment, providing a win-win for ecology and aquaculture. Complementing this are eco-friendly feed innovations, such as probiotic-enriched, low fishmeal formulations, which improve shrimp health, boost disease resistance, and reduce environmental strain.

Genetic advances in disease-resistant broodstock further strengthen farm resilience. Adoption of certifications like ASC reflects growing global demand for traceable, responsibly farmed seafood, pushing producers toward transparent and compliant supply chains. Southeastern coastal regions, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, are emerging as early adopters of IMS and sustainable inputs, driven by collaborations between communities, NGOs, and regulators offering training and incentives. These integrated approaches are not only elevating India’s shrimp farming standards but also positioning the country as a leader in climate-smart aquaculture.

Also, consumer awareness campaigns and international trade collaborations centered around sustainability certifications are unlocking premium markets for Indian shrimp producers, providing incentives for value addition and increasing best practice adoption. All these aspects contribute towards a solid ecosystem that fosters innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience in India's shrimp sector, establishing a benchmark for sustainable seafood production around the world.

Table of Contents

1. Sustainable Shrimp Aquaculture: Definitions & Key Concepts
2. Principles of Integrated Mangrove Shrimp Farming
3. Environmental and Economic Benefits of IMS Systems
4. Innovations in Sustainable Feed and Probiotics
5. Shrimp Species with Improved Disease Resistance
6. Certification Drivers: ASC & Responsible Practices
7. Regional Adoption: Emerging Districts & Coastal Areas
8. Stakeholder Collaboration Models
9. Barriers, Policy Support & Incentive Frameworks
10. Outlook: Scaling Eco Aquaculture in India

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