India’s aquaculture sector is experiencing rapid growth, establishing the country as a leading player in global shrimp production. While intensive and semi-intensive methods dominate, traditional shrimp farming remains significant, especially among small and medium producers. This study focuses on assessing the technical and economic efficiencies of traditional shrimp farming, which is essential for streamlining operations and enhancing productivity. Primary data were collected from 73 shrimp farmers in Kerala’s (one of the leading sea foods producing area in India) major traditional shrimp-producing regions, Ernakulam and Alappuzha, through a survey detailing socio-economic characteristics, farm structures, input use, and revenue sources.
The analysis employs a Stochastic Production Frontier model—a widely recognized approach in economic research for efficiency measurement. The study reveals that 91.78% of the surveyed farmers are aged between 40 and 70, with varied educational backgrounds; 53.42% have not completed matriculation, 30.14% have completed matriculation and 6.85% have completed the college degree. Experience levels also differ, with 43.1% of farmers having 5 to 15 years in shrimp farming and 17.24% possessing over 30 years. Additionally, 73.97% are self-employed, with minimal representation from government or non-government job holders. Farm sizes vary, with 51.61% being less than 5 hectares and only 6.45% between 20-40 hectares. Shrimp accounts for 66.67% of production, averaging a yield of 850.65 kgs per acre annually, while other fish represent 33.33%, yielding 552.08 kgs per acre.
These socio-economic characteristics suggest potential factors influencing efficiency. The final analysis of technical and economic efficiency outcomes, which is currently underway, will be discussed at the conference. This study aims to contribute insights into optimizing traditional shrimp farming practices in India, thus supporting sustainable aquaculture growth.