Seaweed cultivation is rapidly gaining traction along India’s coasts as a low-cost, high-impact opportunity. Unlike land-based crops, it needs no freshwater, fertilisers or arable land, making it a sustainable venture for fisherfolk and coastal communities. India boasts over 800 species and harvestable biomass potential of more than 0.26 million tonnes wet weight, yet only a small fraction is actually harvested.
Key coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Odisha (plus UTs like Lakshadweep & Andaman & Nicobar) are already taking active steps. Tamil Nadu has piloted commercial red algae (Kappaphycus alvarezii) cultivation and is setting up a multi-purpose seaweed park. Under the PMMSY scheme, large investments are being made: support for rafts/planting material/post-harvest infra, creation of seed/seedling banks, awareness & training programs.
Economics look promising: entrepreneurs say fishers can earn ₹10-30,000/month depending on scale; dry-seaweed yields fetch good prices in export and industrial sectors (carrageenan, cosmetics, bio-stimulants). Challenges remain market linkages, quality control, vulnerability to storms & weather, and policy clarity. If scaled carefully with institutional support, seaweed could redefine coastal economies and India’s green industrial exports.
