Table 1: Return from mud crab farming S.No
Item
I
Initial Investment cost
Remarks
a
Making of Bamboo cage
b
Cost (Rs.)
Size: 6’ x 4 ’x 2.5’ (5 piece bamboo, rope, takes 5 person days). Including transport cost.
2685
Foreshape & basket (Chimuta, jhudi etc.) Total initial investment
used for 3 years, 24 times
300 2985
1
Investment for one batch
Rs.2985/24
2
Crab (without fat)
150 gram to 180 gram/piece -8 kg @ 238/kg= Rs.1904
3 4
Feed Cost per 15 day Labour Cost
For 15 days - estimated- own about 15 minutes for feeding in morn- evening, cleaning left over if any/day x 15 days= say 1 day
II
Total Expenditure per batch
III
Total Returns
8 kg , sold @500/kg
IV V
Net returns per batch Net returns per season
Rs.4000 – Rs.2479 = Rs.1521 (one batch in 15 days) minimum 8 batches per season
125 1904 150 300 2479 4000 1521 12168
The average net income during the season per family ranged between Rs.3500 to Rs.4500 within a span of four months. In a season, these fishermen could earn more than Rs.12000 (see table 1). This is a significant additional income for the marginal fishers who regularly suffer loss of income due to various climate extremes.
Fattened crabs-ready for the market
crab is native to the mangroves and tidal creeks of the area, they can be grown organically. Mud crab cultivation in open water body requires big investment. Considering these factors, the team worked on the farming design and cost estimate in consultation with the community. The five needy families were identified by the community members on the basis of their socio-economic condition, occupation and interest. These fishermen were given intensive training too.
22
To ensure that the crabs would not escape, bamboo cage was adopted with little investment. Also, there are artisans who can make them locally. During September end to March, the crabs of 150-180 grams weight without fat are released to the cage. They are fed with the left over trash fish for two weeks. In two weeks time, these crabs develop substantial fat. LEISA INDIA JUNE 2017
Krushna Chandra Sahu Head Livelihood Indo-Global Social Service Society - IGSSS 118, Garfa Main Road Kolkata-700075 West Bengal E-mail: sahu@igsss.net