Pearl Farming in India: Benefits, Process & Profits

22-Dec-2025

What Is Pearl Farming?

Pearl farming means cultivating pearls inside oysters or mussels under controlled conditions.

99% of pearls sold today are cultured, not naturally formed.

Why It’s Growing in India

India exported pearls worth $3.79 million in 2022.

Farmers can earn 50–60% returns with minimal space and steady market demand.

Key Benefits

• High market value
• Low maintenance
• Low labour needs
• Eco-friendly business
• Long storage life without loss of quality

Where Training Happens

Top training centres in India include:

• CIFA (Odisha)
• Aurangabad
• Jaipur
• Haryana
• Uttar Pradesh

These teach grafting, oyster care, and marketing.

How Pearl Farming Works

1. Select a pond or tank
2. Collect oysters
3. Insert bead (nucleus)
4. Hang oysters in nets
5. Wait 12–24 months
6. Harvest and sell pearls

Investment & Profits

• Initial setup: ₹20,000–₹25,000
• For 10,000 oysters: ₹2.5–₹3 lakh investment
• Expected income: ₹18–25 lakh
• ROI: 50–100%, depending on quality.

Government Support & Subsidies

Under the Blue Revolution Scheme, farmers get 50% subsidy for pond setup.

Schemes like PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and NFDB offer funding and training.

Pearl Farming at Home

You can start with a small RAS tank system:

Two tanks, an air pump, and ~50 mussels.

Perfect for beginners or small entrepreneurs.

Challenges to Know

• Long cultivation period (12–24 months)
• Oyster care is crucial
• Market prices vary
• Training needed for grafting and maintenance

The Future of Pearl Farming

With global demand rising for eco-friendly jewellery, India’s pearl farmers are set for growth. It’s the perfect blend of tradition, technology, and profit.

Final Takeaway

Pearl farming = Low cost, high value, sustainable income.

With training, patience, and government support, Indian farmers can turn water into wealth.

Discover pearl farming in India and boost your income with low-cost, high-return methods. Learn more at your nearest Mahindra Tractor dealer!