Dr. Manoj M. Sharma, born in Nanded, Maharashtra, initially aspired to become either an IAS officer or a doctor. Like many of his peers in the 90s, he dreamt of a career in medicine. However, financial challenges and a series of setbacks steered him in a different direction. Although he narrowly missed securing admission to medical college by just 2%, Dr. Manoj did not let this discourage him. After spending a year studying commerce, he shifted his focus to science, particularly aquaculture, driven by a growing passion for fisheries.
His relentless dedication and perseverance bore fruit when he successfully cleared the India entrance exam for ICAR CIFE to get admission in Masters in Aquaculture Management. After that, in 2007 he also cleared the ARSB Associate Professor exam but didn't join the position. This milestone marked the turning point in his career, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to his significant contributions to the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, culminating in his prestigious role on the UPSC board.
Early Fascination with Aquatic Life
Dr. Manoj has been fascinated by aquatic life since his childhood days. He would often stare at fish in glass jars for hours, feeling a growing passion to enter the fisheries world. He graduated in Fisheries from Science College, Nanded, and then pursued his Master’s degree at the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, laying the foundation for his future in aquaculture.
Turning Point: Journey to Gujarat
Dr. Manoj’s life took a significant turn in 1994 when he moved to Gujarat. He noticed that shrimp farming was still in its infancy in the state and saw an opportunity to transform the industry. Although Gujarat is known for its business acumen and largely vegetarian population, shrimp farming was not popular. Dr. Manoj began farming on cheap land offered by local farmers, seizing this opportunity to lay the foundation for a thriving seafood industry.
Revolutionizing Shrimp Farming in Gujarat
Through relentless effort, Dr. Manoj introduced new shrimp farming techniques that transformed salt-encrusted wastelands into productive farms. His innovative ideas on giant freshwater prawn culture and brackish-water shrimp farming gained acceptance and were soon adopted across Gujarat. His initiatives are like He is one of the key founder members of the Surat Aquaculture Farmers Association (SAFA) which fostered collaboration among farmers and promoted sustainable practices.
Dr. Manoj arrived in Olpad, Gujarat, with a vision to change the shrimp farming landscape. He introduced the concept of giant freshwater prawn culture and, subsequently, brackish-water shrimp farming. His efforts turned the barren wastelands of Dandi, Gujarat, into productive shrimp farms, bringing hope and prosperity to the region.
Building an Aquaculture Empire
In 2005, Dr. Manoj founded Mayank Aquaculture Private Limited (MAPL), starting with just 4 hectares of land. Today, MAPL has expanded to 400 hectares, producing nearly 1,000 tons of high-quality shrimp annually. His introduction of "VIVALINE," an aquaculture product line focused on disease prevention, has further strengthened the industry.
Today, with an annual income of 75 to 100 crores, Dr. Manoj continues to lead the charge in revolutionizing the shrimp farming industry, proving that with perseverance and innovation, the possibilities are limitless.
Global Recognition and Achievements
Dr. Manoj’s work has gained international acclaim, earning him numerous awards for his exceptional contributions to the seafood industry, including:
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Invited as speaker by FAO GLOBEFISH, An event held in Barcelona
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Recipient of the “Best BW Shrimp/Fish Farmer- Coastal States” award for the year 2018 from NFDB (National Fisheries Development Board), Hyderabad.
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Received the prestigious “India’s Small Giants” award from the India SME forum for the year 2014.
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Awarded by ICAR (Central Institute of Fisheries Education) for “Leadership in Fisheries & Aquaculture” year 2014-15.
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BEST FISH FARMER AWARD received from Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai on Fish 8th July 2005.
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Received the Agrivision Award for outstanding contributions to Shrimp Farming by the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad in 2020.
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Best Technology Infusion/ Innovation 2021 - by National Fisheries Development Board, Government of India.
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ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute Innovative Farmer Award 2023 by Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Indian Agricultural Research Institute.
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In 2024 World Aquaculture Society conferred the Global Industry Impact award in Copenhagen, Denmark for his outstanding contributions to world shrimp farming
Challenges and Innovations
Throughout his journey, Dr. Manoj faced challenges such as increasing production costs and disease outbreaks. In response, he adopted innovative practices like multiphase indoor rearing and short culture cycles to enhance sustainability and profitability. These initiatives have not only increased production but also created opportunities for poor farmers.
Impact on the Community
Dr. Manoj’s contributions have transformed the lives of thousands, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in coastal regions. His success in revitalizing the shrimp industry has inspired a new generation of farming families to adopt aquaculture practices.
Vision for the Future
Dr. Manoj is poised to tap into the domestic market potential, aiming to reduce reliance on exports. His pesco-vegetarian restaurant, ‘Zhingalala,’ offers a diverse range of dishes featuring farm-raised shrimp, with a focus on promoting awareness about seafood sustainably grown within India. Beyond just farming, Dr. Manoj envisions creating long-term economic benefits for coastal communities, fostering both sustainability and local economic growth.
Dr. Sharma's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in shrimp farming exemplifies his hard work, dedication, and visionary leadership. His story serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to pursue their dreams and contribute to the growth of sustainable aquaculture.
