Fish production in J&K reaches all-time high of 28,000 MTs

Srinagar, Apr 14: Jammu and Kashmir’s fish production has reached 28,000 metric tonnes in 2023-24, with 19,530 metric tonnes already recorded by November 2024, according to the official document.

The fisheries sector in the region has experienced a significant surge in overall production over the past few years, contributing substantially to the local economy and employment opportunities.

Jammu and Kashmir’s total fish production reached 28,000 metric tonnes, marking an increase from 25,000 metric tonnes in 2022. This growth reflects a broader trend of expansion in the fisheries sector across the region, driven by innovative technologies, government initiatives, and strategic investments.

The rise in production has been particularly notable in trout farming, with output increasing from 598 metric tonnes in 2019 to 1,990 metric tonnes during the financial year 2022-23. Overall, trout production has increased by more than 300 percent in the last four years, rising from 650 metric tonnes in 2019 to 2,100 metric tonnes in 2023.

Javid Ahmad Bhat from Tangmarg exemplifies the success stories emerging from this sector. After years in the hospitality industry, the fisheries graduate decided to utilize his knowledge in fish farming to improve his economic condition.

“I have two more professionals employed at my farm. I always dreamt of starting my farm. The money I earned while working in a hotel in Srinagar helped me to establish my farm,” Bhat said. Within just two years, his farm produced more than 20 quintals of rainbow trout.

Currently, there are over 800 private trout fish units in Kashmir. Major fish-rich water bodies include Lidder, Wangath, Gurez, Hamal, Lam, Sindh, Kishenganga, Sukhnag, Doodhganga, Erin, Ferozpur (Tangmarg), Bringi, Aharbal, Hirpora, Dachigam, Kokernag, Naristan, Madhumati, and Nowbugh.

In addition to the natural water bodies, the number of private fish farms has expanded across Kashmir over the past few years, with many entrepreneurs and farmers venturing into the sector. In Anantnag, Baramulla, Ganderbal, and Srinagar districts, numerous fisheries farms have been set up with government support, boosting the region’s fish farming industry. Notably, Anantnag was declared the Trout Fish District of India in June 2018.

The introduction of Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and Biofloc technologies in 2020-21 has been instrumental in enhancing fish production efficiency. These technologies optimize water and land usage, making fish farming more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

The government has launched several initiatives to boost the fisheries sector, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which aims to increase fish production and improve post-harvest practices.

Moreover, the sector has created numerous employment opportunities, particularly among the youth, with the establishment of 1,144 Trout Rearing Units, of which 611 units were set up in the last four years.

“The department is providing every assistance to the farmers to make his unit a successful one. Educated youth have realised the potential of this farming and more than 1144 trout-rearing units have been established under the private sector. The government’s push for self-reliance in food production and job creation has further strengthened the sector,” an official said.

Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, contributes significantly to Kashmir’s fish production, accounting for about 60% of the region’s total fish catch. The lake’s fish production has shown sustained growth, with carp yield rising to 3,378.61 metric tonnes in 2023-24.

The fisheries department is working towards making Jammu and Kashmir self-sufficient in fish production, with ambitious plans to increase the growth rate from 3.28% to 40% over the next five years. This vision includes expanding trout production to 4,000 metric tonnes and enhancing carp production significantly.

Future plans aim to double fish production by modernizing hatcheries and adopting advanced aquaculture technologies. These efforts are designed to improve productivity, enhance post-harvest management, and promote fisheries exports.

The overall production of fish in Kashmir has increased by 5,840 metric tonnes, highlighting the significant strides made in this sector and its growing importance to the regional economy.

Rainbow trout, which was introduced to Kashmir over 100 years ago, is now produced on a large scale in the region, with seeds being supplied to other areas as well, further cementing Kashmir’s reputation as an important center for fish production in India.