India’s seafood exports currently stand at ₹61,254 crore ($7.38 billion). For entrepreneurs looking to start a fish farming business, this highlights strong demand for fish both in domestic and international markets. This roughly translates into fish farming in India being a shining business idea.
Amid the growing demand for fish and seafood, fish rearing stands as one of the fastest-growing businesses in India. In this blog, we’ll understand everything you need to know about this fish aquaculture business, the investment needed, government assistance, and the risks.
With 8% share in the global fish production, India stands as the second-largest fish-producing country in the world. In the past few years, fish farming in India has drifted from centuries-old small-sized ponds to modern methods. Due to new technologies and government schemes, farmers can now produce fish more efficiently and receive steady returns.
Aquaculture is also part of the Blue Economy, which refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth. It includes growing, rearing, and harvesting fish, prawns, and other aquatic animals. It is one of the primary focus areas under government programs such as the Blue Revolution and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
Starting and running a fish farm requires a moderate investment to cover the cost of the following:
For opening and running a small farm, you’ll need to invest roughly ₹5 lakh to ₹7 lakh. This number can go up to ₹20 lakh or even more if the farm is large.
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Cost to construct a pond | ₹5,000 – ₹2 lakh |
| Construction of sluice gate (inlet/outlet) | Up to ₹25,000 |
| Fish seed | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Fish seed and nutrition | ₹20,000 – ₹1 lakh |
| Labour cost (Monthly) | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Cost of equipment | ₹15,000 – ₹1 lakh |
| Maintenance charges (Monthly) | ₹5,000 – ₹20,0000 |
| Fertilisers and manures | Up to ₹20,000 |
There are many banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) that provide fisheries loans in India to help scale and grow your business. You can apply for a business loan to cover the cost of infrastructure, machinery, and feed.
Fish farming is categorised into two broad types: freshwater and marine.
1. Freshwater Fish Farming
Freshwater fish farming refers to the rearing of fish in ponds, tanks, or rivers. The common freshwater species are Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Tilapia, and Pangasius. Freshwater farming is ideal for places with easy access to ponds or inland water. It needs less investment than marine farming.
2. Marine Fish Farming
Marine or seashore aquaculture refers to the rearing of fish in seawater. Seabass, Pomfret, Mullet, and Groupers are some species that fall under this category. Marine farming requires more capital and an advanced system, such as cages or net pens, in coastal regions. It also requires skills and experience working with the sea.
You can select the type of farming you want to do depending on your location, resources, and market. Freshwater species are the starting point for most entrepreneurs who move to marine or integrated systems when they start scaling and get experience.
The government offers various schemes to encourage aquaculture startups and fish farming in India. Here are the schemes that assist new and established farmers with training, financial assistance, and subsidies:
Aquaculture subsidy is offered to farmers through central and state government initiatives. Subsidy can be 40–60% of the project cost, subject to the type and location.
Here are the effective marketing strategies you must follow to successfully promote your fish farming business:
Here are the common risks associated with starting a fish farming business in India:
Starting a fish farming business can be a rewarding venture if planned and executed carefully. With rising seafood demand and government schemes, you have a great opportunity to build a sustainable and profitable business.
Whether you are starting small or aiming big, you will need funds to scale your business. At DMI Finance, we offer business loans to help you grow and scale your business. Apply for a business loan and get up to ₹25 lakh to cover the cost of everything from feed to marketing.
1. What is the investment required to start a small fish farm in India?
You can start a small fish farm in India with ₹5-7 lakh, depending on land, pond size, and fish species.
2. What are the most suitable fish species for a beginner?
Rohu, Catla, Tilapia, and Pangasius are best for a beginner since they grow very quickly, are easy to manage, have strong market demand and offer good profit margins.
3. How much profit can I make from fish farming?
The exact profits will depend on your business stage and business operations. An annual harvest of 5,000 kg at ₹150/kg can offer a potential of ₹7.5 lakh.
4. Is fish farming lucrative in India?
Yes, under good management, fish farming in India is very profitable with good market demand and profit potential.
5. Do I need a license for fish farming?
Yes, you need local permits from the Fisheries Department and pollution control boards.
6. What is aquaculture?
Aquaculture is the cultivation of prawns, fish, and other aquatic animals in controlled environments.
7. Do you offer a loan facility for initiating fish farming?
Yes, DMI Finance offers low-interest business loans to help you scale your fish farming business in India.
8. Is there any government subsidy for fish farming?
Yes, you can avail yourself of an aquaculture subsidy under the Blue Revolution and PMMSY schemes.
9. How do I sell my fish products?
You can sell through wholesalers, restaurants, or retail shops and online delivery apps.
10. What are the major risks of aquaculture?
The major risks are disease outbreaks, water quality issues, volatile feed costs, and unstable prices.
Disclaimer: The business ideas shared in this blog are based on research and trends. DMI Finance does not recommend or guarantee it. Starting a business involves risk; please use your own judgment and discretion. DMI Finance is not liable for any loss or outcome resulting from actions taken based on this content.
