Jammu Kashmir Poised to Become National Model in Fisheries, Says LG Sinha | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to emerge as a national model for integrated fisheries development, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday while addressing the National Coldwater Fisheries Conference at the Sher‑i‑Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC).

LG Sinha hailed the Union Government’s approval of a Rs 100‑crore fisheries cluster in Anantnag as a demonstration of India’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted that India, the world’s second-largest fish producer, aims to replicate its White Revolution success in fisheries through technological advancements and supportive policies.

Under the Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP), trout production in JK has risen from 1,663 tons in 2021‑22 to 2,650 tons in 2024‑25, utilising around 27,000 hectares of water resources. The 29 interlinked projects under HADP are expected to double the contribution of agriculture and allied sectors to the region’s GDP.

Sinha noted key challenges, including climate change, rising water temperatures, water scarcity, slow growth of indigenous species, and fish health risks. He emphasised the need for a scientific roadmap focusing on genetic improvement of trout and carp, climate-resilient production systems, aquatic health management, and indigenous feed development.

Innovative solutions, such as drone-based transport of fresh fish from high-altitude farms, were highlighted to improve logistics and reduce spoilage. Strategic initiatives include the Trout Integrated Aqua Park at Kokernag, the National Vision 2030 plan to double trout and mahseer production across Himalayan states, and financial support through Kisan Credit Cards and insurance for thousands of fishermen.

“By integrating production with cold storage, processing, packaging, and branding, Jammu and Kashmir can become a national model in fisheries, generating employment and increasing fish farmers’ incomes,” Sinha said.