(a) whether a study has been undertaken to analyse the
potential of seaweed farming in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof including the findings of the study;
(c) whether the Government has prepared a policy for promoting
seaweed farming;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the other steps taken by the Government to promote seaweed
farming in the coastal areas in the country?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (Dr. CHARAN DAS MAHANT)
(a) & (b) Yes Madam. Studies on the potential of seaweed farming in the country
have been conducted by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
The studies have estimated that the Country has the potential to produce about
1 million tonnes dry seaweed.
(c), (d) & (e) The Government through the National Fisheries Development Board
(NFDB) has introduced a scheme to provide financial assistance for seaweed cultivation.