Gaurav Sen
The fisheries sector in Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation. According to official data, the region’s fish production touched 28,000 metric tonnes in 2023-24, with a remarkable 19,530 metric tonnes already achieved by November 2024. This sharp rise is not only a testimony to the region’s untapped aquatic potential but also a beacon of sustainable economic and employment growth. At present, there is a requirement to use research and development as a relevant means to enhance fish production, use the environmental and manpower resources optimally to boost fish production, and upgrade the marketing network to promote the sector in a sustainable manner.
Jammu and Kashmir’s unique geographical and climatic conditions – including of the region north of the Pir Panjals and the Ladakh plateau, make it ideally suited for both cold-water and warm-water aquaculture. With over 27,000 hectares of water resources including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, the scope for fish farming is immense. Fish farming fits quite well into the local socio-cultural milieu and food habits of the entire region of the former undivided state of Jammu & Kashmir now constituting the Union Territories (UTs) of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Traditionally known for trout farming, the UTs may now expand into carp and other species, diversifying the UTs` aquaculture portfolio. The result would be a significant rise in overall fish production and begin to yield tangible economic benefits.
The recent political dynamics of the Indus Water Treaty is another factor which may be kept in view in the context of fish farming and production. Though it may appear a bit premature at this stage, impounding water bodies even in limited areas through which run-of-the-mill waters of tributaries flow into the Indus, Jhelum and Chenab, may be explored for fish cultivation. There would be engineering challenges, topographical gradients to be overcome, etc, as well as substantial investment needs concomitant to such plans to develop fisheries in upstream areas of the western rivers of the Indus basin. Should we succeed, the fishery potential of the UTs could be enhanced in the long-term perspective.
A major impediment in the way of fishery development in the UTs is fish habitat destruction by water pollution. Unfettered mining in river spaces is affecting fish habitats. A classic case was the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Order of 28th September, 2022 which banned riverbed mining in the Shali Ganga nallah in Budgam district of Kashmir following an appeal by social activist, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat. The NJT Order did in fact salvage the interest of fisheries as the nallah was the habitat of particularly brown and rainbow trout, and the water body was also a popular source of fishing.
The economic ripple effects of the fishery sector are expected to be profound. Firstly, increased fish production will contribute to local food security and reduce dependency on imports from other states. This will also boost allied industries such as fish-feed production, cold storage, transportation, and processing units, creating a more robust value chain. As fish consumption grows both locally and in the UTs as a whole and also in the peripheral regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, there will be an impact at the national level also. The export potential for premium varieties like rainbow trout will open new avenues for revenue. More importantly, the fishery sector of the UTs of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh will become a crucial provider of rural employment.
With minimal investment and relatively quick returns, fish farming offers an accessible livelihood option for youth, marginal farmers, and women in rural and semi-urban areas. Government schemes and training programs, such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), have further empowered local entrepreneurs by providing technical know-how, infrastructure, and financial assistance. This is particularly vital in a region like Jammu & Kashmir where, traditional employment avenues are limited and seasonal. Moreover, sustainable fish farming practices have the potential to protect water bodies and promote biodiversity. When managed well, the sector can balance ecological concerns with economic growth. Integrating eco-tourism with aquaculture-such as creating angling spots, fish-themed parks, or trout farms for visitors-can generate additional income and promote local culture and cuisine.
In essence, the fisheries sector in the entire UTs of a Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh stand at a pivotal juncture. Its success story could serve as a model for other Himalayan regions. With the right policy push, investment in technology, and community participation, fish farming can become a cornerstone of our inclusive and sustainable economic future. The waters of Jammu & Kashmir in the larger sense, once overlooked, are now brimming with possibility.
We must not forget that, Jammu & Kashmir won the Best UT Fisheries Award for 2024 and produces trout of the UT accounting for 90% of the national output. There is therefore a substantive base to build upon.
(The author writes on economic developmental matters of national concern)
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