Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 20 November 2024
Laxmi Nagar Gram Panchayat, located at the southernmost tip of India, is seeking support from the Directorate of Fisheries to introduce seaweed farming in its coastal areas. The region, known for its shallow water coastal zones spanning 27 kilometres and its connectivity to several nallahs, offers ideal conditions for seaweed cultivation.
Prahlad Singh, Pradhan of Laxmi Nagar Gram Panchayat, highlighted that many residents are already aware of the benefits of seaweed farming, with awareness being further spread through NGOs. Singh also referenced the recent encouragement from the Chief Secretary of A & N Islands during a program in Sri Vijaya Puram, which advocated for seaweed farming as a means to improve the economic prospects of Islanders.
Seaweed is gaining popularity in markets due to its medicinal properties, rich nutritional content, and high market value. Singh emphasised that its cultivation could provide substantial economic benefits, especially for rural communities. There are currently 17 to 20 women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) operating under the Panchayat, with approximately 200 women involved. Many of these women have shown keen interest in seaweed farming, seeing it as an opportunity to support their families.
In a recent personal meeting, Singh discussed the potential of seaweed farming with the Director of Fisheries and is now formally requesting technical and financial support to introduce the practice. The proposal aims to assist farmers, SHGs, and unemployed youth in Laxmi Nagar with the resources needed to launch seaweed farming in the region, ultimately improving the local economy.