Overview
India’s cold water fisheries are becoming an important part of the country’s Blue Economy. These fisheries support jobs, improve nutrition, encourage eco-tourism, and help mountain communities earn income. With strong government support, modern technology, and rising production, the sector is creating new opportunities for sustainable development in high-altitude regions.
Introduction
India has one of the richest aquatic ecosystems in the world. Fisheries play an important role in food security, employment, and economic growth. Among different fisheries sectors, cold water fisheries are becoming increasingly important. They support people living in mountain regions and help use natural resources in a sustainable way.
Cold water fisheries are practiced mainly in high-altitude regions where rivers and lakes receive water from snow and glaciers. These fisheries are creating new income sources and helping local communities improve their living standards.
The Government of India is also paying greater attention to this sector because of its contribution to the Blue Economy and sustainable development.
What are Cold Water Fisheries?
Cold water fisheries refer to fish farming and fish production carried out in high-altitude snow-fed water bodies. These include rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs where water temperature remains low.
Certain environmental conditions are needed for these fisheries to grow successfully:
- Water temperature between 5°C and 25°C
- Dissolved oxygen above 6 mg/L
- pH level between 6.5 and 8.0
Such conditions help fish grow in a healthy manner.
Major Regions for Cold Water Fisheries in India
Cold water fisheries are mainly found in mountain and hilly regions of India.
Important regions include:
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
- Himachal Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Sikkim
- Meghalaya
- Nagaland
They are also present in hill districts of:
- West Bengal
- Kerala
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
Together, these areas cover more than 5.33 lakh square kilometers of mountainous land.
Fish Species Found in Cold Water Fisheries
India has identified more than 278 cold water fish species . Many of these species have commercial value and are also important for biodiversity.
Important species include:
- Rainbow trout
- Golden mahseer
- Snow trout
These fish need cold and clean water for healthy growth.
Trout farming is generally done in places above 1,500 meters altitude , while mahseer culture can be practiced at relatively lower elevations.
Modern Technologies Used in Cold Water Fisheries
Traditional methods alone cannot support growing demand. Therefore, several modern systems are being used.
Important technologies include:
Hatcheries
Hatcheries produce fish seeds under controlled conditions.
Raceways
Raceways are long channels through which water flows continuously. They provide proper oxygen supply for fish growth.
Recirculatory Aquaculture System (RAS)
RAS filters and reuses water. It reduces water waste and improves fish productivity.
Biofloc Technology
Biofloc technology helps maintain water quality and reduces feed costs.
Cold Chain Infrastructure
Cold chain systems help store and transport fish while maintaining quality.
These technologies increase production and improve fish health.
Present Status and Production
India's fisheries sector has shown significant growth over recent years.
During 2024–25 , India's total fish production reached around 197.75 lakh tonnes .
Cold water fisheries contribute nearly 3 percent of inland fish production .
Current cold-water fish production stands at approximately 7,000 metric tonnes .
Trout production has increased rapidly over the last decade. It has reached nearly 6,000 metric tonnes during 2024–25.
Among Indian regions:
- Jammu and Kashmir is the leading trout producer
- Himachal Pradesh follows next
- Uttarakhand also contributes significantly
This growth shows the increasing potential of the sector.
Government Initiatives for Cold Water Fisheries
The government has introduced several programs to strengthen fisheries infrastructure and increase production.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Under PMMSY during 2020–26 , projects worth more than ₹5,638.76 crore were approved for cold-water states.
The scheme supports:
- Infrastructure development
- Fish production
- Employment generation
- Skill development
Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)
Projects worth approximately ₹7,761.78 crore were approved during 2018–26 .
Support areas include:
- Hatcheries
- Training centers
- Fisheries infrastructure
Blue Revolution Scheme
The Blue Revolution Scheme operated during 2015–20 .
It provided support for:
- Scientific trout farming
- Hatchery development
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