Vol. 10, Special Issue 7 (2025)

Author(s): T Iyyappan, R Santhakumar, M Kishore Kumar, P Subash, G Arul Oli and P Padmavathy

Abstract: Shrimp farming plays a crucial role in global aquaculture exports, offering a sustainable alternative to reduce pressure on natural fish stocks. Ensuring stable and enhanced shrimp production in India necessitates better management practices and advanced technologies, with Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu playing a crucial role in its production. This study critically examines the factors influencing the managerial efficiency of shrimp farmers in the district. A total of 150 shrimp farmers were randomly selected from three major blocks in the district. Data were collected through structured interviews and analysed statistically. Results revealed that 71.33% of the farmers showed medium-level efficiency, with an overall managerial efficiency of 72.67% and a gap of 27.33%. Key functional domains influencing efficiency included timely adoption, resource mobilization, evaluation competence, and planning ability, which showed higher efficiency levels. However, gaps were noted in rational decision-making, marketing, and coordination activities. Variables such as education, income, experience, farm size, training, and risk orientation positively influenced efficiency, whereas farm ownership had a negative effect. The study emphasizes the need for targeted training programs aimed at enhancing decision-making skills, market intelligence, and interpersonal coordination to bridge the efficiency gap and promote the long-term sustainability of shrimp aquaculture.