In Gujarat’s coastal belt, where salt-encrusted lands once lay barren, a remarkable transformation has taken place—thanks to one man’s relentless pursuit of his passion. Dr. Manoj Sharma, a visionary shrimp farmer, turned an unconventional dream into a Rs100 crore industry, reshaping Gujarat’s aquaculture landscape.
A Childhood Fascination That Sparked a Revolution
Born in Nanded, Maharashtra, Dr. Manoj grew up mesmerized by aquatic life. As a child, he spent hours watching fish swim in glass jars, unknowingly laying the foundation for his future. Like many, he aspired to become a doctor but narrowly missed medical school admission. Instead of giving up, he redirected his passion and pursued a Master’s in Aquaculture Management from Mumbai’s Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE).
From Barren Land to a Thriving Shrimp Empire
In 1994, he moved to Olpad, Gujarat, where he recognized the untapped potential of shrimp farming. At the time, Gujarat’s coastal lands were considered unsuitable for agriculture, but Manoj saw an opportunity.
With the help of local leader Pradeep Navik, he started experimental shrimp farming in Dandi’s salt-affected soil. Early attempts failed due to viral outbreaks and legal hurdles, but he persevered.
In 2005, he took a bold step—starting shrimp farming on just four hectares of barren land. He sold his first harvest by the roadside, proving that even in a predominantly vegetarian state, aquaculture had potential.
Scaling Up to a Rs100 Crore Business
Over time, Dr. Manoj founded Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited (MAPL) and expanded operations to 400 hectares, producing nearly 1,000 tonnes of shrimp annually. Today, his company generates an annual turnover of Rs75–100 crore.
To support other farmers, he established the Surat Aquaculture Farmers Association (SAFA), which now empowers over 500 farmers.
Overcoming Cultural and Industry Challenges
Despite his success, shrimp farming in Gujarat wasn’t easy. The state, known for its vegetarian culture, initially showed little interest in seafood production. However, economic opportunities changed mindsets, creating thousands of jobs along the coastline.
“It was never just about food—it was about livelihoods,” says Dr. Manoj.
His efforts were recognized globally, earning him awards like:
Best Shrimp Farmer – National Fisheries Development Board
Global Industry Impact Award (2024) – World Aquaculture Society
Featured as “Father of Gujarat’s Blue Revolution” – DD National
Dr. Manoj’s Vision for India’s Blue Revolution
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Manoj advocates for five key reforms to expand shrimp farming in India:
Unified Land Lease & Water Policies – To make coastal and inland aquaculture accessible to farmers.
Standardized Power Tariffs – Lower electricity costs to boost shrimp farming profits.
Domestic Market Promotion – Reduce export dependency by increasing local seafood demand.
Agricultural Policy Inclusion – Recognize shrimp farming under agriculture for insurance & subsidies.
Public Awareness on Nutrition – Promote shrimp as a high-protein, healthy food alternative.
He envisions a “Blue Revolution”—just like India’s Green (agriculture), White (dairy), and Pink (poultry) revolutions—ensuring farm-fresh shrimp is accessible to all Indians.
A Legacy That’s Changing India’s Coastline
Dr. Manoj’s journey from a failed medical aspirant to a ₹100 crore aquaculture tycoon proves that passion and perseverance can turn barren lands into goldmines. His impact goes beyond profits—he’s transforming lives, revitalizing coastal economies, and shaping India’s future in aquaculture