Patna: In a major step towards diversifying aquaculture and boosting farmers’ income, the Bihar government has approved a new initiative that will enable farmers to undertake pearl farming alongside fish farming. Under the Fish Species Diversification Scheme for the financial year 2026–27, the state will also promote pearl and freshwater prawn cultivation as part of its efforts to expand climate-resilient and profitable aquaculture practices.
The initiative has been introduced by the Department of Animal and Fisheries Resources and is expected to create new income opportunities for fish farmers across the state.
Bihar Government Approves Pearl Farming Under Fish Species Diversification Scheme
The state government has included pearl farming in its Fish Species Diversification Scheme for 2026–27, allowing farmers to utilize ponds and other water bodies for integrated aquaculture.
The scheme is designed to encourage farmers to cultivate multiple aquatic products simultaneously, helping them increase productivity while reducing dependence on a single source of income.
Officials believe that integrated fish and pearl farming can significantly improve farmers’ earnings and support sustainable, climate-friendly agriculture.
Target of 100 Pearl Farming Units Across 50 Acres
For the current financial year, the government has set a target of establishing 100 pearl farming units, covering approximately 50 acres of water bodies across Bihar.
According to official estimates, the project is expected to produce nearly 1.2 lakh cultured pearls during the implementation period.
Beneficiaries will be selected through an online application process, which will soon be launched by the Fisheries Department under the Fish Species Diversification Scheme.
Farmers to Receive 60% Subsidy for Pearl Farming
To encourage adoption of pearl cultivation, the Bihar government will provide a 60% subsidy to eligible farmers under the scheme.
The subsidy aims to reduce the initial investment required for pearl farming and encourage more fish farmers to diversify into high-value aquaculture.
Rising Demand Makes Pearl Farming a Profitable Opportunity
The demand for cultured pearls has been steadily increasing in both domestic and international markets. India continues to import large quantities of cultured pearls every year to meet domestic demand, creating significant opportunities for local production. By promoting pearl farming within the state, Bihar aims to reduce dependence on imports while creating new business opportunities for farmers.
Bihar Has Strong Potential for Freshwater Pearl Farming
Experts believe Bihar possesses excellent natural conditions for freshwater pearl cultivation.
Compared to marine pearl farming, freshwater pearl farming offers several advantages, including:
- Availability of abundant freshwater ponds and water bodies
- Lower production costs
- Fewer predators affecting pearl oysters
- Easier management and maintenance
- Higher scope for expansion in inland regions
These factors make freshwater pearl farming a cost-effective and sustainable aquaculture activity.
CIFA Technology to Support Pearl Cultivation
The technology for freshwater pearl farming has been developed by the ICAR–Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Bhubaneswar.
The institute has developed scientific techniques for pearl cultivation and production in freshwater bodies across India.
These technologies are expected to support Bihar farmers in adopting pearl farming efficiently while improving productivity and product quality.
Freshwater Pearl Farming Growing Across Asia
Freshwater pearl cultivation has already been successfully adopted in several Asian countries, including:
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- India
Continuous research and technological advancements are helping these countries meet growing global demand for cultured pearls.
Bihar’s new initiative aims to leverage similar technologies and practices to develop a sustainable freshwater pearl farming ecosystem within the state.
Bihar Expands Climate-Resilient Aquaculture for Higher Farmer Income
With the introduction of pearl farming alongside fish and freshwater prawn cultivation, Bihar is expanding its aquaculture sector beyond traditional fish production.The initiative is expected to improve farmers’ incomes, promote efficient use of water resources, encourage climate-resilient farming practices, and create new opportunities in the high-value aquaculture sector.
If implemented successfully, the scheme could position Bihar as one of India’s emerging centres for freshwater pearl production while strengthening the state’s rural economy.
