Casting a wider net Sirmaur’s fish farming industry gets a big boost

The Fisheries Department of Himachal Pradesh has intensified its efforts in fish spawn production, focusing on species with high market demand. In a significant development, the department in Sirmaur district is preparing 20 lakh spawn of Hungarian Common Carp and Common Carp at the government fish farm in Badri Pur, Paonta Sahib. This marks the first time that such large-scale production is taking place in the district, promising a boost to the local fish farming industry.

Hungarian Common Carp, also known as Amur Common Carp, is a sub-species of Common Carp and was introduced in Sirmaur in 2022. Originally bred in Hungary, this variety is known for its adaptability and high growth rate. The Common Carp, one of the most widely cultivated freshwater fish globally, is already popular among fish farmers. In addition to these, the fisheries department is also producing around three lakh spawn of Golden, Rohu and Catla fish to diversify fish farming options for local farmers.

While government initiatives focus on carp species, trout farming is also gaining traction in the private sector. Large-scale trout production is being carried out in areas like Nauradhar and Dhamla, where favorable climatic conditions support its growth. However, until now, local farmers in Sirmaur had to travel to Nalagarh and Hoshiarpur in Punjab to procure spawn for Hungarian Common Carp and Common Carp. With the establishment of spawn production at the Badri Pur fish farm, farmers will now have easier access to high-quality fish seed within the district, reducing costs and logistical challenges.

The state government has implemented several schemes to promote fish farming, including the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Mukhyamantri Carp Matsya Palan Yojana. Under PMMSY, general category farmers receive a 40% subsidy, while SC, ST, and women beneficiaries receive a 60% subsidy.

The Mukhyamantri Carp Matsya Palan Yojana further supports fish farmers by providing an 80% subsidy for the construction of fish ponds. In addition to financial aid, the fisheries department is actively conducting awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the benefits of fish farming and the various schemes available to them.

Assistant Director of the Fisheries Department, Dr Somnath Patial, emphasised that this large-scale spawn production at Badri Pur is a milestone for Sirmaur. He highlighted that, for the first time, such a significant quantity of fish spawn is being produced within the district, ensuring better availability for local farmers.

The initiative undertaken by the Fisheries Department of Himachal Pradesh is expected to strengthen the aquaculture sector and improve livelihoods for fish farmers in Sirmaur. By reducing dependency on external sources for spawn and promoting government support schemes, the state is paving the way for sustainable growth in fish farming. With increased awareness and resources, more farmers are likely to adopt aquaculture, boosting both the local economy and fish production in the region.