Haryana Raises Subsidised Solar Capacity Limit to 30 kW for Shrimp Farmers

The Haryana government has increased the capacity limit for solar power systems eligible for subsidy under its shrimp farming programme from 10 kW to 30 kW. The move is aimed at reducing energy costs for shrimp farmers, promoting aquaculture and improving agricultural incomes.

Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Shyam Singh Rana announced the increase, which is expected to help shrimp farmers reduce their dependence on grid electricity and diesel generators and lower operating costs.

Under the state's Intensive Fisheries Development Programme for 2025-26, the project cost for solar power systems installed for white shrimp farming has been set at INR 50,000 per kW. Accordingly, a 30 kW solar system will have an eligible project cost of INR 15 lakh. The government will provide a subsidy of 60 percent of the eligible cost.

The revised limit is intended to enable farmers to install larger solar power systems and reduce expenditure on energy used in aquaculture operations. Lower operating costs are expected to improve the economic viability of shrimp farming.

Separately, the Haryana government is developing Integrated Aqua Parks, which will function as Centres of Excellence, in Sirsa and Bhiwani districts to strengthen the state's fisheries infrastructure. The facilities are expected to provide access to modern aquaculture technologies, technical guidance and specialised support services.

Construction of the Centre of Excellence in Bhiwani has commenced, with the facility scheduled to become operational by June 2028. The Integrated Aqua Park at Poharka village in Sirsa district is being developed under the Central government's Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

The proposed facilities will offer practical training in modern fish and shrimp farming, along with access to quality seeds and scientific guidance for farmers and fish growers.

The state government is also encouraging farmers to diversify from traditional wheat and paddy cultivation into fisheries and shrimp farming as alternative sources of income.

Rana said that white shrimp cultivation has potential in areas affected by soil and water salinity, where conventional agricultural activities face limitations. The government is seeking to expand aquaculture in these areas through improved infrastructure, technology adoption and financial assistance.