India is a major producer of giant tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) for export, with welfare standards an emerging consideration in international market access.
Giant tiger prawn welfare in Indian aquaculture faces similar challenges to other shrimp-producing nations - eye stalk ablation, high stocking densities, and harvest and slaughter practices are the primary welfare concerns. The scale of Indian production means that welfare improvements have large aggregate impact. Export market welfare requirements provide a commercial pathway for industry improvement that domestic market prices alone may not support. The development of Indian aquaculture welfare standards that are both scientifically grounded and practically achievable for smallholder producers is a key challenge for welfare organisations working in this sector.