Although women in India are not conspicuous in the formal industrial sector, their role in traditional coastal shrimp farming is quite significant. In recent years, shrimp farming has expanded fast, particularly in the maritime districts of Tamil Nadu, The rapid development of this industry has provided employment opportunities for women, particularly fisher women and they are now able to contribute to household income. They are involved in various facets of shrimp farming, including pond construction, seed collection, collection of feed materials and preparation of feeds, pond maintenance and post harvest handling. This study indicates that about 40% of the laborers involved in shrimp farm construction are women. The various roles of rural women in shrimp farming are also described.