Himachal Pradesh Emerges as Leading Supplier of Rainbow Trout-Eyed Ova to Other Hill States

Himachal Pradesh has become a key provider of high-quality rainbow trout-eyed ova to hill states such as Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh. According to an official statement, the state has supplied 9.05 lakh rainbow trout-eyed ova to Uttarakhand alone this fiscal year. This initiative is part of various schemes aimed at boosting aquaculture in the region.

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Trout Production and Future Projections

The Department of Fisheries in Himachal Pradesh has produced 12.60 lakh rainbow trout-eyed ova and 1.74 lakh brown trout-eyed ova from eight government-run farms this fiscal year. With ongoing breeding efforts, total production is expected to exceed 20 lakh eyed ova, a notable increase from last year's 15.79 lakh in the government sector. The private sector is also anticipated to match this volume, with nine hatcheries in Kullu, Mandi, and Sirmour districts aiming for a combined production of 20 lakh eyed ova.

Overall trout production in Himachal Pradesh reached 1,402 metric tonnes in 2023-24 and is projected to rise to 1,600 metric tonnes in 2024-25. These efforts have not only increased aquaculture output but have also motivated local youth to explore opportunities in this sector. "By promoting sustainable and scientific aquaculture practices, we are empowering the next generation of farmers to contribute to national food security and economic growth," stated Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

Infrastructure Development for Aquaculture

To further enhance rainbow trout production in cold-water regions, the fisheries department has established a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) unit at the Trout Farm in Patlikuhal, Kullu. A similar unit has been set up privately and both are now operational. These initiatives are expected to significantly boost cold-water aquaculture in the state, according to Vivek Chandel, director of the Fisheries Department.

The department has also supported farmers in Kullu by facilitating the supply of eyed ova to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. In the coming week, an additional 3 lakh rainbow trout fries will be shipped to Uttarakhand, further strengthening aquaculture initiatives there. This collaboration between Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand aims to transform the sector by ensuring sustainable livelihoods and food security.

The efforts by Himachal Pradesh's fisheries department have not only increased trout production but have also inspired young people to engage in aquaculture. By adopting sustainable practices, these initiatives aim to secure food resources while contributing to economic growth.