Shrimp farming in saline inland ponds in sonipat, Haryana: Analysis of economic viability & constraints

Abstract

The study analyzes the economic viability and constraints of shrimp farming in inland saline water ponds in Sonipat district. Primary data were collected from 28 farmers through structured interviews, and enterprise performance was assessed using cost-return analysis, benefit-cost ratio, break-even analysis, and payback period. The results indicate that shrimp farming yields an average of 3,250.00 kg per acre per season, with gross returns of ?12.84 lakh and net income of ?4.86 lakh per acre. A benefit-cost ratio of 1.61 and a payback period of 1.07 years highlight the strong profitability and rapid recovery of investment. However, the sector faces significant challenges, particularly disease outbreaks, high feed costs, water quality management, labor shortages, and market fluctuations. The findings demonstrate that inland shrimp farming offers a profitable and sustainable alternative to traditional agriculture in saline-affected regions. Policy interventions addressing input costs, disease management, and capacity building are essential to enhance long-term sustainability and farmer resilience.