Senior journalist Herjinder unveiled the captivating narrative of how the British successfully introduced trout fishing to India during the 19th century in his latest book, “A Fish in Alien Streams.” This compelling story delves into the determined efforts of naturalists, buccaneers, and governors who played pivotal roles in transporting cold-water fish from Europe and Britain to India, acclimatizing it to rivers in regions such as Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Nilgiris, and Travancore.
In a recent interview, Herjinder discusses various aspects, including the British fascination with trout fishing, the challenges they faced, why angling failed to gain popularity among India’s royals, and the threats posed by pollution to freshwater biodiversity.
The initial attempts to introduce trout in the Nilgiris in 1863 faced failures, as did subsequent efforts by Francis Day and others. However, the breakthrough occurred in Kashmir in 1891, credited to Frank Mitchell. The book sheds light on Mitchell’s pivotal role in initiating the journey of European brown trout into Indian rivers.
While the British wrote extensively about angling in India, there is limited literature specifically dedicated to trout fishing. Some booklets were produced, but no comprehensive works were authored, making researching the subject challenging. The sheer determination of the British to bring trout to India against the odds adds intrigue to the story.
Addressing angling in India, Herjinder notes that it failed to captivate the royals and elite, who were more inclined towards shikar (hunting). Commercial fishing, reserved for lower castes, may have discouraged the royals from pursuing angling.
Unlike popular sports such as cricket, hockey, or badminton, angling couldn’t gain traction in India, failing to become a sport among the middle class or a permanent recreational activity among the elite. The absence of a dedicated community of Indian trout enthusiasts further contributed to its limited appeal.
While there is a small number of Indian anglers, Himachal Pradesh’s active anglers’ association has seen success. However, efforts to promote recreational fisheries in India are primarily directed at foreign tourists rather than the Indian populace.
Addressing threats to biodiversity, Herjinder emphasizes the urgent need to save fish fauna in rivers, especially species like the mahseer. The dwindling numbers of trout in India also require attention, and initiatives similar to the Act for Mahseer project could be explored.
The interview underscores the critical role of preserving native fish species in the subcontinent, which, once lost, cannot be replaced, making conservation efforts imperative.
Source: Money Control
