Seafood based curry and home grown rice is one of the yummiest foods of Goa. ‘Kurlio’ or Crab in particular, is an all time favourite among Goans and tourists’ alike. Popular being the lipsmacking ‘Crab Xacuti’, ‘Crab Xec-Xec’ and stuffed crab.
Underwhelming Response
The local fishermen have recently been encouraged to take up crab farming on a commercial basis; however only few showed their eagerness. Recently the Fisheries Department conducted a 3 day training programme for locals interested in engaging in the activity but the response was underwhelming.
Unwilling Locals
Research states that the fishing industry has employed over forty thousand people in the state. Though Crab Farming is a lucrative business, scarcity of land is the main reason for their unwillingness. Other reasons include difficulty in obtaining permission from local authorities and the heavily priced initial investment.
Making Ends Meet
In response to the situation, the Fisheries Department will be conducting a pilot project in October at Ela Farm, Old Goa. Apart from the department, TERI organization is planning a demo project after the monsoon. In addition, a financial assistance scheme will be set up by the government. This scheme will provide the necessary funds for setting up a crab culture unit and for purchasing seeds.
Our marine resources are depleting at a rapid rate. With that said, I hope sustainable development of Crab farming will satiate the craving of seafood lovers and improve the quality and quantity of resources in the State.
