The article discusses the significant potential of seaweed cultivation in Indian mariculture, emphasizing its nutritional richness and industrial applications. It highlights existing seaweed industries and the proposal for a seaweed park in Tamil Nadu. The cultivation of specific seaweed species and associated income opportunities are presented, along with government policies and organizations supporting farmers. Key factors influencing seaweed growth, including salinity, light intensity, temperature, and stocking density, are outlined. Various technological interventions for cultivation, such as the Single Rope Floating Raft method and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture, are discussed. Opportunities in seaweed farming include the potential for India to become a net exporter, contributing to coastal rural prosperity, revolutionizing organic agriculture, and fostering economic growth. Technological interventions, such as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and climate forecasting, are proposed. Challenges in further developing the cultivation tool are identified, emphasizing the need for data collection, physical sensors, database management, and satellite usage.
1.India’s extensive coastline offers significant potential for seaweed cultivation, rich in vitamins, minerals, and industrial applications like agar, carrageenan, and alginate.
2. India has about 20 agar industries, 10 algin industries, but seaweed exploitation is inadequate for industry demands, leading to the proposal of a seaweed park in Tamil Nadu.
3. The Indian government supports seaweed farming through policies, education programs, and technology interventions to boost the blue economy and aquaculture.
4. Various cultivation methods such as Single Rope Floating Raft, Tube Net, Monoline, and Pond Farming, coupled with technology like Autonomous Underwater Vehicles, enhance seaweed farming efficiency.
5. Seaweed aquaculture not only aims to make India a net exporter but also promises to uplift coastal rural economies, revolutionize organic agriculture, and attract overseas investments for economic growth.
“”Seaweed aquaculture not only aims to make India a net exporter but also promises to uplift coastal rural economies, revolutionize organic agriculture, and attract overseas investments for economic growth.
Research Intern, MRC