Assessment of Commercial Fish Feed Usage and Market Access among Fish Farmers in Manipur, India

Abstract

Fish feed constitutes the largest share of operational costs often up to 60 % in aquaculture and plays a very important role in determining the overall growth, health, and productivity of cultured fish.  A structured questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 50 fish farmers across five districts of Manipur namely Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur to assess the availability, pricing, and usage of commercial fish feed. The study aimed to understand feed preferences, access to subsidies, and supply-related challenges. This study showed that only 20% of respondents reported easy availability of commercial feed in remote areas, while 88% noted price hikes due to economic blockades. A majority of farmers preferred feeds (Crude protein range-28 to 30%) and floating feed types, mainly for Indian Major Carps. Only 8% reported receiving subsidized feed. The findings highlight limited feed access in remote areas, inadequate policy outreach, and pricing challenges. The study suggests improving distribution infrastructure, increasing subsidy awareness, and promoting local, low-cost feed innovations to enhance aquaculture sustainability in Manipur.