Patna: Bihar is promoting pearl farming as an additional source of income for farmers, with 89 trainees from Sheikhpura, Chhapra, Banka and Saharsa receiving specialised training in pearl production. Under the state’s Fisheries Species Diversification Scheme for 2026–27, eligible beneficiaries can also receive a subsidy of up to 60% on the cost of setting up a pearl farming unit.
The six-day training programme began on October 9 at the Fisheries Training and Extension Centre in Matsya Vikas Bhawan, Mithapur, Patna. It aims to equip participants with practical skills to produce pearls and explore an alternative income source alongside fish farming.
89 Trainees Learn Practical Pearl Farming Techniques
The training covers different species of freshwater mussels used in pearl cultivation, nucleus implantation and surgical procedures involved in pearl production.
Experienced pearl farmers are helping participants understand the practical aspects of the process. Dhanji Kushwaha, a pearl farmer from Buxar who has worked in the field for several years, demonstrated pearl farming techniques to the trainees. He has also trained farmers in different districts.
Joint Director of Fisheries (Training and Extension) Dilip Kumar Singh explained which mussel species are suitable for pearl production. Lecturers and junior lecturers from the Fisheries Training and Extension Centre also participated in the programme.
The practical sessions aim to help trainees understand the technical requirements of pearl cultivation before setting up their own units.
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60% Subsidy Under Fisheries Diversification Scheme
The Bihar government has implemented the Fisheries Species Diversification Scheme across all districts for the financial year 2026–27.
The scheme aims to increase fish production, conserve and promote indigenous fish species, and improve farmers’ annual income. It encourages diversification into several activities, including:
- Minor carp farming
- Catfish farming
- Air-breathing fish farming
- Shrimp farming
- Pearl farming
By encouraging different forms of aquaculture, the government aims to provide farmers with more options to generate income from fisheries.
Pearl Farming Unit Costs ₹2.246 Lakh
Under the scheme, the government has fixed the cost of a half-acre pearl farming unit at ₹2.246 lakh. Eligible beneficiaries can receive a subsidy of up to 60% of the prescribed unit cost.
At the maximum subsidy rate, the assistance would amount to approximately ₹1.35 lakh, leaving around ₹89,840 to be arranged by the beneficiary. The farmer can cover the remaining amount through personal funds or a bank loan, subject to the applicable scheme conditions.
The subsidy is intended to reduce the initial financial burden of setting up a pearl farming unit and encourage more farmers to consider the activity.
Pearl Farming Could Add to Farmers’ Income
Pearl farming offers farmers an opportunity to diversify beyond conventional fish cultivation. However, successful production requires suitable mussel species, technical knowledge, proper cultivation practices and careful management.
The training programme is designed to build these skills and familiarise farmers with the practical stages of pearl production.
As Bihar expands its aquaculture activities, pearl farming could create another avenue for rural livelihoods. The combination of practical training and financial assistance may help interested farmers explore this specialised activity and diversify their income sources.
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