30, August 2025

Aquaculture as a Driver of Rural Entrepreneurship in India: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategic Policy Perspectives

VOLUME-11; ISSUE-8; AUG-2025

Author(s): Bhavin A Patel , Dr. Dipesh Jha

Authors Affiliations:

1.Research scholar, Department of rural studies, VNSGU, Surat

2. Temporary Assistant Professor, Mahatma Gandhi Department of Rural Studies, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat-395007, India)

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202508043     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202508043


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Abstract The aquaculture sector has emerged as a revolutionary force in India's rural economic landscape, fundamentally transforming traditional livelihood patterns and catalyzing unprecedented entrepreneurial growth. This comprehensive study examines aquaculture's multifaceted role in promoting rural entrepreneurship through an extensive synthesis of secondary research, detailed case studies, and critical analysis of government policy frameworks. As the world's second-largest aquaculture producer, India exemplifies how strategic development of small-scale fish farming and allied business enterprises can generate substantial household income, empower marginalized communities—particularly women—and foster robust community-based enterprises. Drawing from extensive national statistics, comprehensive market research, and in-depth field studies, this paper illuminates key entrepreneurial models that have emerged within the aquaculture value chain and evaluates the effectiveness of various policy interventions. While the sector presents substantial opportunities for income diversification, technological innovation, and rural economic development, persistent challenges related to environmental sustainability, export market dependency, and inadequate rural infrastructure continue to constrain its full potential. The study concludes that aquaculture represents far more than a traditional production system—it functions as a dynamic catalyst for rural entrepreneurship, requiring sustained policy commitment and robust institutional support to realize its transformative potential for India's rural economy.
Keywords: Aquaculture, Rural Entrepreneurship, India, Sustainable Livelihoods, Agricultural Policy, Economic Development, Food Security, Women Empowerment

Bhavin A Patel , Dr. Dipesh Jha (2025); Aquaculture as a Driver of Rural Entrepreneurship in India: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategic Policy Perspectives, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-8, Pp. 316-321.         Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/

References

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Times of India. (2024-2025). Multiple articles documenting state-level aquaculture entrepreneurship initiatives and success stories across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, and Uttarakhand. Times of India Publishing Group.

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