Hazaribag becomes India's first pearl farming cluster (May 3, 2026)

Key facts

• Hazaribag district has been identified as the first and only pearl farming cluster in India by the Government of India (GoI).
• The fisheries department is developing Hazaribag into a model pearl hub at the national level.
• Women self-help groups are being encouraged to take up pearl farming, with plans to form an all-women Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO).
• Cage culture operations at Tilaiya reservoir have integrated pearl culture along the periphery of cages.
• A phased plan includes connecting more farmers, promoting modern technology, and ensuring direct market linkages.