23 August 2025, Andhra Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, launched the Innovative Seaweed–Shrimp Integration Model developed by the ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai in partnership with the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP), and Government of Andhra Pradesh. The initiative was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the Action Plan on Seaweed Culture Programme.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Naidu emphasized that integrating seaweed with shrimp farming will transform coastal aquaculture by improving water quality, enhancing nutrient recycling, and generating additional income, particularly for women Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
The MoU was signed by Smt. V. Karuna, IAS, CEO, SERP, and Dr. Kuldeep K. Lal, Director, ICAR-CIBA, in the presence of Shri Naidu.
Dr. Lal highlighted that ICAR-CIBA’s research on integrating Gracilaria spp. seaweed with shrimp culture showed promising results, including a 3–8 fold increase in seaweed biomass and improved shrimp growth, providing farmers with additional revenue without extra inputs. This model, he stated, is both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
To operationalize the programme, the experts engaged 30 trained SHG women with technical support from ICAR-CIBA.
The Chief Minister interacted virtually with the women farmers, who shared their positive experiences and highlighted the new livelihood opportunities created through seaweed farming.
This public–private partnership aims to establish replicable, farmer-centric models of responsible aquaculture, supporting Andhra Pradesh’s Blue Economy vision and positioning the state as a leader in sustainable coastal resource management.
(Source: ICAR–Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai)
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