Rupinder Kaur, a dedicated shrimp farmer from Enna Khera village, made headlines as she attended the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi on January 26, 2025, as a special guest of the Central Government. Recognized for her outstanding contributions to aquaculture, Kaur was one of six distinguished shrimp farmers from Punjab invited to the prestigious national event.
At 30 years old, Kaur has transformed her passion for shrimp farming into a thriving business since she began in 2021. The graduate farmer described her participation in the Republic Day festivities as “a lifetime moment,” highlighting the significance of the honor bestowed upon her by the government. The Central Government generously covered all her travel expenses, including flights, accommodation, and meals, with the exception of her trip to Chandigarh.
During the celebrations, Kaur had the opportunity to meet with Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh. In their discussion, the minister announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a pivotal scheme providing financial support to shrimp farmers across the nation. Under PMMSY, the government offers a substantial subsidy for setting up shrimp farming ventures: 40% for individuals from the general category and 60% for SC/ST individuals and women. This subsidy is jointly funded by the Central and state governments in a 60:40 ratio.
Kaur’s success story is a testament to the effectiveness of the PMMSY initiative. Starting with a modest four-acre pond, she and her husband, Manjinder Singh, have expanded their operations to 12 acres across the Muktsar and Fazilka districts. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices is evident in Kaur’s adoption of the eco-friendly biofloc method, renowned for its high yield and minimal environmental impact.
Muktsar district has emerged as a leader in Punjab’s shrimp farming sector, boasting 400 acres dedicated to this lucrative aquaculture venture. Kaur’s innovative techniques and dedication have not only elevated her own enterprise but have also inspired fellow farmers in the region to adopt more sustainable and productive farming methods.
Reflecting on her journey, Kaur emphasized the crucial role of government support in her success. “The financial assistance and recognition from the government have been instrumental in expanding our farming operations. Programs like PMMSY empower farmers like me to innovate and grow,” she stated.
As Punjab continues to lead in shrimp farming, the recognition of farmers like Rupinder Kaur underscores the vital intersection of agricultural innovation and government support. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring aquaculturists across the country, demonstrating the potential for growth and excellence in sustainable farming practices.
