How do I start freshwater prawn (scampi) farming and what does it cost?

Freshwater prawn or scampi (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) is farmed in freshwater earthen ponds, often in low salinity coastal or inland areas, either alone or together with fish like carps. Costs include pond preparation, aeration, seed, feed, and labour, and per acre investment for a crop commonly runs into a few lakh rupees, varying by region and whether ponds exist already. Scampi grows slower than vannamei and is usually a single longer crop, but it fetches a good price for larger sizes. It is generally seen as somewhat lower risk than intensive vannamei but still needs good water and pond management. Confirm whether your water and soil suit scampi, and get a cost estimate and the right culture method verified by your state Fisheries department and local farmers before starting.