Srinagar, Mar 14 (KNO): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to emerge as a national model for integrated fisheries development, as India consolidates its position as the second-largest fish-producing country in the world.
Addressing the National Coldwater Fisheries Conference at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, the LG Manoj Sinha as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said it is a matter of great pride and happiness to host the conference in J&K.
He congratulated the Union Minister for approving a RS 100-crore fisheries cluster in Anantnag even before arriving in Srinagar, calling it a symbol of the Government of India’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Highlighting India’s achievements, he said the fisheries sector contributes approximately 7.3% to agricultural GDP, with exports having doubled since 2013-14. “Just as India led the White Revolution in dairy, we aim to become the world’s largest producer of fish,” he said, stressing the role of technological advancement and policy support.
On regional development, the LG shared progress under the Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP). “Trout production has increased from 1,663 tons in 2021-22 to 2,650 tons in 2024-25.”
He said J&K utilizes approximately 27,000 hectares of water resources for fisheries development. HADP’s 29 interlinked projects are expected to double the contribution of agriculture and allied sectors to the region’s GDP.
LG Sinha highlighted challenges facing the sector, including climate change, rising water temperatures, water scarcity, slow growth of indigenous species, and fish health risks.
He stressed the need for a scientific roadmap focusing on genetic improvement of trout and carp, climate-resilient production systems, aquatic health management and indigenous feed development.
Innovative solutions, such as drone-based transport of fresh fish from high-altitude farms, were also discussed to reduce spoilage and improve logistics.
The LG further highlighted several strategic initiatives, including the Trout Integrated Aqua Park at Kokernag with recreational, marketing and value-addition facilities, the National Vision 2030 plan to double Trout and Mahseer production across Himalayan states and financial support programs such as Kisan Credit Cards and insurance, being extended to lakhs of fishermen.
LG Sinha further said, “By integrating production with cold storage, processing, packaging and branding, Jammu and Kashmir can become a national model in fisheries, creating employment and increasing fish farmers’ incomes.”—(KNO)