A Proud Global Moment for Indian Shrimp Farming:
For most shrimp farmers, working at the farm level and being recognised on a global stage can seem like two very different worlds. But for Dr. Manoj M. Sharma, a pioneering shrimp farmer from Gujarat, India, those worlds came together at one of the shrimp industry's most important international gatherings.
At the Global Shrimp Forum in the Netherlands, Dr. Manoj Sharma was honoured and recognised as a “Shrimp Superhero”—a moment of pride not only for him, but for India’s wider aquaculture and shrimp farming community.
The recognition carries special significance because it came at a platform that brings together leading voices from across the global shrimp value chain. The 2026 Global Shrimp Forum, held in Utrecht from September 1–3, marks the event's fifth edition and brings together around 550 industry leaders and experts representing different parts of the global shrimp sector.
A Farmer Representing India on a Global Platform:
Dr. Manoj Sharma’s presence at the Global Shrimp Forum is itself significant. The official forum programme lists him among the speakers, identifying him as Dr. Manoj Sharma, Founder of Zhingalala.
But his journey represents much more than participation in an international conference.
For decades, Dr. Sharma has been closely associated with the development of shrimp farming in Gujarat, India. His work has focused on practical farming, sustainable production and supporting the growth of shrimp aquaculture in the region. His experience and contribution have also made him a recognised voice in discussions around the future of Indian shrimp farming.
From working directly with farmers to representing Indian aquaculture on international platforms, his journey reflects how practical experience from the farm can contribute to larger conversations about the future of the shrimp industry.
What Makes the ‘Shrimp Superhero’ Recognition Special:
The Global Shrimp Forum is a meeting place for people involved across the shrimp value chain—from farmers and producers to researchers, exporters, feed companies, retailers and sustainability experts.
The forum focuses on major issues shaping the future of shrimp, including global markets, consumer demand, sustainability, technology, trade and the changing dynamics of the industry.
In such a global setting, the recognition of a shrimp farmer from Gujarat, India, as a Shrimp Superhero stands out.
It is a reminder that innovation and leadership in aquaculture do not belong only to boardrooms, laboratories or large corporations. They can also emerge from the farm—from people who understand the daily realities, challenges and opportunities of shrimp production.
For the Indian aquaculture community, Dr. Manoj Sharma’s recognition brings the story of a farmer to the centre of an international industry conversation.
From Gujarat, India’s Shrimp Farms to International Recognition:
Dr. Manoj Sharma has long been associated with efforts to advance shrimp farming in Gujarat, India. His experience spans practical aquaculture development, farmer organisation and the promotion of sustainable shrimp farming approaches.
His work has also been recognised previously through awards and industry platforms, while his experience has taken him to international forums where he has shared perspectives on shrimp farming and market development.
The latest recognition at the Global Shrimp Forum adds another memorable chapter to that journey.
For India’s shrimp farming community, this is more than an individual honour. It represents the growing presence of Indian farmers and aquaculture professionals in global discussions about where the shrimp industry is heading.
A Moment of Pride for Indian Aquaculture:
India is an important force in the global shrimp industry, but the people working at the farm level do not always receive international visibility.
That is why Dr. Manoj Sharma being celebrated on a global platform carries a wider meaning. It shines a light on the experience, innovation and commitment of farmers who form the foundation of the aquaculture industry.
From Gujarat, India, to Utrecht, the journey of Dr. Manoj Sharma sends a powerful message: a farmer's work can travel far beyond the boundaries of the farm.
Being recognised as a Shrimp Superhero at the Global Shrimp Forum is therefore a proud moment for Dr. Manoj Sharma—and an equally proud moment for the Indian shrimp farming community.
As the global shrimp industry comes together to discuss its future, this recognition ensures that one of India's own farmers stands among the people helping represent that future.
