An Economic Analysis of Inland Fisheries Production and Constraints Faced by Producers in Middle Gujarat

This study focused on the cost and returns of inland fish production as well as the constraints faced by inland fish producers in middle Gujarat, particularly in the districts of Anand and Kheda. A total of 120 respondents from selected villages were categorised based on pond size. Since ponds were leased from the government, no fixed capital assets were recorded. Among the various operational costs, the average expenditure was ?2,15,005.94/ha, with the highest costs incurred by large pond producers. The overall yield was 2,441.80 kg/ha, with large producers achieving the highest yield due to better resource management. The average fish price was ?110.20/kg, and the overall net returns were ?54,080.42/ha. The benefit-cost ratio of 1.25 indicated economic viability of inland fish production in the study area. Significant constraints identified were fish theft, predator losses and water quality issues. Enhancing extension services, forming a producer's union, and providing technical and financial support to improve productivity and profitability.