The Brackish Revolution: Redefining Women’s Roles in Coastal Aquaculture
Coastal aquaculture plays a vital role in India's blue economy by utilizing saline and brackish
water resources for the culture of shrimp, fish, crabs, and other aquatic organisms. Despite
possessing vast coastal and estuarine resources, only a small proportion of India's brackish
water potential is currently utilized. Recent initiatives by the Indian Council of Agricultural
Research–Central Institute of Brackish water Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA) and government
schemes have significantly enhanced women's participation in aquaculture production,
entrepreneurship, and leadership. Women-led interventions in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu,
Odisha, Maharashtra, and West Bengal have demonstrated improved income generation,
sustainable resource utilization, and ecosystem conservation. Integrated farming systems such
as shrimp–seaweed culture, mud crab farming, and integrated shrimp–rice farming have
strengthened livelihood security and climate resilience. However, challenges including limited
access to resources, inadequate representation in decision-making, and socio-cultural barriers
continue to hinder women's full participation. Strengthening gender-inclusive policies,
capacity building, and institutional support can accelerate sustainable coastal aquaculture
development. The empowerment of women in brackish water aquaculture represents a
transformative pathway toward inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and resilient
coastal communities in India.