Fisheries Secretary reviews the Rainbow Trout/Cold Water fisheries in Nilgiris District

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Dr Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary (Fisheries), Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India visited the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu on 23rd January 2025 to review of the Rainbow Trout/Cold Water fisheries in Nilgiris District. The trout hatchery and farm facilities at Avalanches were also visited, and discussions were held with officials from the state government to explore opportunities for sustainable development in the sector. The union secretary has highlighted the huge untaped potential of Rainbow Trout/Coldwater fisheries in the Himalayan region and Nilgiris hills of Tamil Nadu.


Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary (Fisheries), Department of Fisheries, MoFAH&D also highlighted the importance of improved end-to-end value chain linkages, strengthening market access, technological interventions, including the utilization of indigenous brood, to enhance production efficiency and sustainability. States were directed to integrate the same into their annual action plans, ensuring adequate allocation for infrastructure development and other necessary technological interventions. This strategic approach aims to position cold water fisheries as a significant source of livelihood and employment opportunities for local communities.


Union Secretary during the visit also participated in the ranching of fish seed into the Avalanches river, reinforcing the focus on improving fish production, ecological balance, and livelihood opportunities for local communities. Interaction was also done with beneficiaries during the visit.


Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary (IF), presented an overview of cold water fisheires potential, challenges and opportunities in the country.


During the meeting, private entrepreneurs emphasized the significant export potential of Trout, given the increasing global demand. State representatives acknowledged these opportunities while also outlining the challenges faced in developing cold-water fisheries. ICAR scientists presented various research and development activities underway for rainbow trout, including collaborations with international partners. These efforts aim to enhance production and improve the sustainability of cold-water fisheries in India


The meeting witnessed participation from key stakeholders in fisheries value chain, Fisheries entrepreneurs, Dr. J K Jaina, ADG, ICAR, ICAR-DCFR, Senior officers from NFDB, Fisheries Department of Uttarakhand, Himachal, J&K, Tamil Nadu, WB, and North East Region states.


The cold water resources in the Himalayan corridor, including upland streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, are distributed across Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, West Bengal, and all North-Eastern States. The total fish production from upland areas constitutes about 3 percent of India's inland fish production. The cold water fisheries sector in India holds immense potential for economic growth and livelihood enhancement. The Department of Fisheries has made significant strides in harnessing these resources through the development of rainbow trout hatcheries, which have substantially increased fish production and created local employment opportunities. With the establishment of new hatcheries and the adoption of advanced aquaculture techniques, an annual production of 14 lakh trout seeds has been achieved. This initiative has not only provided year-round availability of fresh fish but also enhanced the income of local fish farmers. The achievement of self-sufficiency in trout seed production marks a major milestone, reducing dependency on external sources and promoting sustainable economic growth within the region.


The PMMSY, with its aim to double fishers' incomes, prioritizes increasing fish production and productivity. This includes incorporating modern technologies, emphasizing "more crop per drop" principles, expanding culture areas, and diversifying species, including cold-water species. To support cold-water fisheries development, significant efforts are underway to establish brood banks, hatcheries, and seed rearing units, creating a robust ecosystem for these species. A comprehensive action plan under PMMSY leverages the potential of Himalayan states to enhance cold-water fisheries production.


The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to fostering the growth of cold-water fisheries. Participants recognized the critical role of collaboration between the government, private sector, and research institutions in overcoming challenges and maximizing the sector's potential. By embracing modern technologies, strengthening infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices, India can unlock significant economic and social benefits through the development of its cold-water fisheries.


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