In the salt-affected wastelands of South Gujarat, where agriculture once seemed impossible, Dr. Manoj Mohanlal Sharma saw an opportunity to transform lives and landscapes. Today, his brainchild, Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited, is not just a thriving shrimp farming enterprise but a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment.
With a vision to contribute to the global food bowl and uplift local farmers, Dr. Sharma’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
A Passion for Aquaculture: The Founder’s Story
Dr. Manoj Sharma’s love for aquatic life began in his childhood, where he spent hours studying fish health and behavior in a simple glass jar. This curiosity blossomed into a lifelong passion, leading him to pursue a degree in aquaculture and later a PhD in shrimp farming.
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Sharma has become a pioneer in the field, playing a pivotal role in developing shrimp farming across South Gujarat’s barren lands.
“I was always fascinated by the underwater world,” Dr. Sharma recalls. “When I was deputed to Gujarat to assist local fishermen, I realized the untapped potential of the salt-affected wastelands. It was a eureka moment—I knew shrimp farming could transform these lands and the lives of the people here.”
The Early Years in Gujarat
In 1994, Dr. Manoj Sharma arrived in Surat, where he recognized the immense potential of shrimp farming in the salt-affected wastelands of South Gujarat. At that time, commercial shrimp farming was virtually nonexistent in the region.
By 1997, through persistent efforts and innovation, shrimp farming began to take shape, laying the foundation for what would become a transformative industry. From 1997 to 2004, Dr. Sharma worked extensively as a technical expert, guiding farmers and helping to develop sustainable shrimp farming techniques.
In 2005, he established Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited, a pioneering venture that has since grown into a globally recognized leader in shrimp production. His company has created thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing significantly to the region’s economic and social development.
The Genesis of Mayank Aquaculture
Dr. Sharma’s vision was clear: to turn unproductive lands into thriving shrimp farms, creating a sustainable source of income for local communities. His efforts led to the formation of the Gujarat Aquaculture Association, which brought farmers together under one umbrella to share knowledge, techniques, and technology.
“The support of the local fishermen community was crucial,” Dr. Sharma emphasizes. “Together, we developed the satellite shrimp farming concept, which allowed us to scale operations and create a robust ecosystem.”
Today, Gujarat shrimp farming provides employment and livelihood opportunities to more than 100,000 people. His company, Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited, directly employs approximately 200 people and has a turnover of around ₹100 crore.
Beyond his company, the industry as a whole has grown significantly, creating opportunities for thousands of farmers and businesses. Mayank Aquaculture has not only contributed to India’s position as a key player in global shrimp exports but has also introduced innovative, sustainable, and community-driven farming practices that continue to uplift local farmers.
What Sets Mayank Aquaculture Apart?
In a competitive market, Mayank Aquaculture’s unique selling proposition lies in its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Dr. Sharma’s groundbreaking multiphase nursery concept, which doubles shrimp production and ensures robust seed quality, has earned him national recognition.
“We don’t just grow shrimps; we grow opportunities,” Dr. Sharma explains. “Our focus is on producing the finest shrimps while empowering farmers and contributing to the global food supply.”
The company’s “Pond to Plate” concept, exemplified by its restaurant Zhingalala, further highlights its dedication to transparency and quality. By serving farm-raised shrimps directly to consumers, Mayank Aquaculture is bridging the gap between producers and customers.
Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from the Trenches
Building a startup in the aquaculture sector is no small feat. Dr. Sharma faced numerous challenges, from technical complexities to market fluctuations. However, his unwavering vigilance and adaptability have been key to overcoming these obstacles.
“Shrimp farming is a 24/7 business,” Dr. Sharma notes. “You need to be constantly aware of your surroundings and ready to make quick decisions. A strong technical foundation and a dedicated team are essential.”
One of the biggest turning points for Mayank Aquaculture came when Dr. Sharma realized the importance of aligning his operations with global trends and economic conditions. This foresight allowed him to navigate the uncertainties of the post-COVID world and maintain stability in his business.
Milestones and Achievements
Dr. Sharma’s contributions to the aquaculture industry have been widely recognized. He has received:
- The National Award from the National Fisheries Development Board
- The Impact Award from the World Aquaculture Society
“These awards are not just personal achievements; they are a recognition of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this journey,” Dr. Sharma humbly states.
A Customer-Centric Approach
Mayank Aquaculture’s target audience includes both international exporters and local suppliers. By focusing on quality and sustainability, the company has built a strong reputation in the global market.
At the same time, Dr. Sharma is passionate about developing the domestic shrimp market in India.
“If the Indian population, which already consumes non-vegetarian food, starts including shrimps in their diet, we can double our production and farmers’ income,” Dr. Sharma explains. “This aligns with our Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and doubling farmers’ income.”
The Road Ahead: Future Plans
Looking ahead, Dr. Sharma envisions expanding Mayank Aquaculture’s operations across India and beyond. His goals include:
- Developing simple, effective farming techniques that can be adopted globally
- Diversifying into other aquaculture species to balance supply and demand
“I want to see my shrimps being sold domestically and globally,” Dr. Sharma shares. “Shrimps are a nutritious, protein-rich food, and I believe they can play a significant role in addressing global food security.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Dr. Sharma’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. His advice is simple yet profound:
- Be passionate and knowledgeable:
“Farming is all about common sense and being aware of your surroundings. You need a strong technical foundation and a clear understanding of what you’re doing.” - Embrace challenges:
“Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make tough decisions.” - Stay committed to your vision:
“Growing food responsibly for the growing population is a noble task. Stay focused on your mission, and success will follow.”
A Journey of Transformation
Dr. Manoj Sharma’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and impact. From transforming barren wastelands into thriving shrimp farms to empowering thousands of coastal communities, his journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with vision and determination.
As Mayank Aquaculture continues to grow, Dr. Sharma remains committed to his mission of creating food and profit for all.
“I feel blessed to have achieved so much,” he reflects. “But this is just the beginning. There’s still so much more to do.”
For those inspired by his journey, follow Mayank Aquaculture’s progress at maplshrimp.com and connect with Dr. Sharma on LinkedIn. Together, we can build a sustainable future—one shrimp at a time.
