Panaji: With mud crab (Scylla serrata) among Goa’s most sought-after seafood delicacies, state govt has notified a scheme to promote crab farming by providing financial assistance for setting up crab culture units.The directorate of fisheries has notified the financial assistance for setting up of crab farming unit in Goa scheme, which will remain in force for three years from the date of its publication. It replaces the crab farming subsidy scheme notified in 2016.The scheme aims to promote the scientific farming of locally available mud crabs and eco-friendly mangrove crab culture, while generating employment in rural and urban areas.It covers two farming models—pen culture and box culture.Under the pen culture model, farmers can rear mud crabs in ponds near mangrove areas using enclosed ponds fitted with nylon nets and bamboo supports. Eligible beneficiaries will receive financial assistance for establishing pen crab culture units, along with support towards input costs.The scheme also promotes horizontal and vertical box culture systems, in which crabs are reared individually to prevent cannibalism and improve growth. The vertical system will incorporate recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) technology.The scheme is open to fish farmers, traditional fishermen, individuals, registered self-help groups, and societies interested in setting up crab farming units in Goa.The fisheries department clarified that the assistance is a one-time subsidy and does not cover land costs or future repair and renovation expenses. Beneficiaries must also allow govt officials to inspect the units and ensure that crab farming activities do not harm mangrove ecosystems.Gfx:Pen culture units: unit cost of Rs 2 lakh per 0.1 hectareGeneral category beneficiaries: 50% subsidy up to Rs 1 lakhSC, ST and women: 60% subsidy, up to Rs 1.2 lakhAssistance available for farms up to 0.5 hectareInput costs: Based on a unit cost of Rs 1.5 lakh per 0.1 hectare, general category beneficiaries eligible for assistance of up to Rs 75,000, while SC, ST and women beneficiaries can receive up to Rs 90,000Horizontal box culture units: unit cost of Rs 4 lakh per 1,000 boxesGeneral category: Up to Rs 2 lakh subsidySC, ST and women: Up to Rs 2.4 lakh subsidyAssistance is available for up to two units, or 2,000 boxesVertical box culture units: unit cost of Rs 8 lakh per 1,000 boxesGeneral category: Rs 4 lakhsSC, ST and women: Rs 4.8 lakhsInput cost: Subsidies up to Rs 75,000 for general category beneficiaries and Rs 90,000 for SC, ST and women beneficiaries based on a unit cost of Rs 1.5 lakh per 1,000 boxes
