Fish farming is emerging as a promising career option for young farmers in the Kupwara district, drawing a significant number of youths to engage in this venture for livelihood and employment creation. The private sector, in particular, has witnessed a notable increase in fish farmers, attracting individuals, including those with high qualifications, to participate in fish farming activities.
Kupwara, with its abundant water bodies, Nallahs, and cold-water streams, holds immense potential for fish farming. Recognizing this opportunity, the fisheries department and district administration have established 68 Trout units and 68 carp units in the private sector, along with 6 government sector centres (3 each for trout and carp) to enhance self-employment opportunities.
Under the PMSSY scheme, the fisheries department has provided financial assistance totalling 26.4 lakhs to 12 farmers. Additionally, 54 Angling Permits have been issued, allowing the use of artificial flies, with each permit permitting the angler to keep six fish a day at a cost of 1,000 rupees.
In terms of revenue generation, fish farmers have contributed around Rs 2.80 crore through trout fish farming and Carp fish units annually. The department itself has earned Rs. 29 lakh from various resources in the government fisheries sector. Moreover, the department has released 485,990 fish seeds into natural water bodies, providing assistance to fishermen for low-cost housing, covering around 314 families.
Assistant Director Fisheries Kupwara, Sajad Ahmad Dar, highlighted the significant increase in trout fish production from 5 tonnes eight years ago to approximately 60 tonnes annually. The department’s financial assistance under the Livelihood scheme has supported 556 fishermen with Rs 16.68 lakhs and 12 fish farmers with 26.4 lakhs in the year 2023. This year, 623 fishermen received assistance totalling 18.69 lakhs.
The establishment of a fish sale centre for private fish farms has been a pivotal step, allowing farmers to sell their produce and significantly contributing to achieving good production. The department’s continuous support in education and necessary assistance has played a crucial role in the success of fish farming in the region.
With its abundant water resources, District Kupwara serves as a conducive environment for the development of cold-water fisheries, especially trout. The fisheries department’s proactive role in providing support and creating awareness has spurred a growing number of youth to opt for fish farming as a viable source of livelihood in Kupwara.
