Cage Farming of High Value Finfishes: An Alternate Livelihood Option for Doubling Farmer's Income in Kerala

Cage farming of finfishes was initiated in Kerala in 2007 with the introduction of seacages in Munambam in Ernakulum district. The development of low cost cages and seed production techniques for high-value finfishes and promotional activities by institutional agencies have paved the way for wide spread adoption of cage farming in the coastal districts of the state. The economic viability of cage farming in the brackish water areas in Ernakulam district of Kerala has been analysed in this study for assessing its potential for doubling the income of fish farmers in the state. The financial viability analysis has indicated internal rate of return from 21 per cent for sea bass culture to 125 per cent for Tilapia. The net present value of investment has been found highest for Tilapia ( 4.03 lakhs), followed by red snapper ( 2.12 lakhs). The major constraints identified are lack of seeds, high feed cost, difficulties in marketing, poaching and absence of insurance facilities. Suggestions for enhancing production and earnings of farmers through expansion of culture in potential areas and for addressing the constraints have also been given.